Which term describes a court order that commands or authorizes an action?

The term that describes a court order that commands or authorizes an action is known as a writ. A writ is a formal legal document issued by a court that directs an individual or entity to perform or cease performing a specified act. This can include various types of orders, such as writs of habeas corpus, which require a person to be brought before a judge, or a writ of mandamus, which compels a public official to perform an act that is required by law.

In contrast, an injunction is a specific type of court order that either prohibits a party from doing something or compels them to do something, but it is more narrowly defined than a general writ. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation, which serves as evidence in court but is not an order itself. A summons is a document issued by a court that notifies a person of a legal action and requires them to respond, but it does not command or authorize an action like a writ does.