- gov|ern
- gov|ern «GUHV uhrn», transitive verb.1. to rule; control; manage: »
The election determined which party would govern the United States for four years. Who, or rather, what new coalition shall next govern France? (Time).
SYNONYM(S): direct, conduct. See syn. under rule. (Cf. ↑rule)2. to exercise a directing or restraining influence over; determine or guide: »What were the motives governing the king's decision to give up his throne?
4. to be a rule or law for: »the principles governing a case.
5. Grammar. to require (a word) to be in a certain case or mood; require (a certain case or mood).6. to control automatically the speed of (a machine).–v.i.1. to exercise the function of government; rule: »And no President has ever governed over a more contented electorate—or a more united one (Newsweek).
2. to have a predominating or decisive influence; prevail.╂[< Old French governer < Latin gubernāre (originally) to steer < Greek kybernân]–gov´ern|a|ble, adjective.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.