govern Definition
- 1to control and direct the public business of a country, city, group of people, etc.
- 2to regulate the speed of (an engine) with a governor
Using govern: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "govern" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The country is governed by a monarchy.
Example
The council governs the town.
Example
The committee governs the organization's finances.
Example
The speed of the engine is governed by a mechanical device.
govern Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with govern
self-governance
the ability to govern oneself without outside influence or control
Example
The country fought for self-governance and independence from colonial rule.
Example
Ever since he became the CEO, he has been governing the roost at the company.
to control what one says, especially in order to avoid causing offense or revealing confidential information
Example
In diplomatic circles, it is important to know how to govern one's tongue.
Origins of govern
from Old French 'governer', from Latin 'gubernare', meaning 'to steer'
Summary: govern in Brief
To 'govern' [guhv-ern] means to control and direct the public business of a country, city, group of people, etc. It can also refer to regulating the speed of an engine with a governor. Examples include 'The country is governed by a monarchy' and 'The speed of the engine is governed by a mechanical device.' Phrases include 'self-governance,' 'govern the roost,' and 'govern one's tongue.'