govern
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.gov·ern
verb \ˈgə-vərn\Definition of GOVERN
transitive verb
1
a : to exercise continuous sovereign authority over; especially : to control and direct the making and administration of policy in b : to rule without sovereign power and usually without having the authority to determine basic policy
2
a archaic : manipulate b : to control the speed of (as a machine) especially by automatic means
3
a : to control, direct, or strongly influence the actions and conduct of b : to exert a determining or guiding influence in or over <income must govern expenditure> c : to hold in check : restrain
4
: to require (a word) to be in a certain case
5
: to serve as a precedent or deciding principle for <customs that govern human decisions>
intransitive verb
1
: to prevail or have decisive influence : control
2
: to exercise authority
— gov·ern·able \-vər-nə-bəl\ adjective
See Examples of GOVERN
- The tribe is governed by a 10-member council.
- They want to form their own country and govern themselves.
- The scandal limited her ability to govern effectively.
- How would he govern if he were elected president?
- She suggested changing the state's laws governing the sale of alcohol.
- The council governs fishing in the region.
- We will be studying the forces that govern the Earth's climate.
- Tradition governs all aspects of their lives.
- He allows himself to be governed by his emotions.
Origin of GOVERN
Middle English, from Anglo-French governer, from Latin gubernare to steer, govern, from Greek kybernan
First Known Use: 14th century
Related to GOVERN
Related Words: conduct, direct, head, lead; administer, manage, micromanage, oversee, regulate, superintend, supervise; dictate, dominate, domineer, lord (it over), master, oppress, reign (over), tyrannize; conquer, subdue, subjugate
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