Mandamus (noun)

1. A writ issued by a court of law ordering a public official or governmental body to perform a specific act.
2. A legal order issued by a court to a public official or government agency to perform a specific duty.

Origin:

From the latin word "mandamus" meaning "we command".

Examples:

1. A mandamus was issued to the city council to release public records.
2. The court issued a mandamus to the government agency to correct the violation.
3. The mandamus was used to force the governor to call a special session of the legislature.
4. The court issued a mandamus to the school board to comply with the court's order.
5. The mandamus was a powerful tool for ensuring that the government officials carry out their duties.