regulate

[reg-yuh-leyt]

verb (used with object)

regulated, regulating 

1. to control or direct by a rule, principle, method, etc..

   The statute is intended to regulate the business practices of architects by establishing a code of professional conduct.

   Synonyms: dispose, arrange, adjust, order, conduct, manage, govern, rule

2. to adjust to some standard or requirement, as amount, degree, etc..

   A film was applied to the windows to help regulate the temperature and reduce glare.

   Synonyms: set, set

3. to adjust so as to ensure accuracy of operation.

   If the watch is consistently off, it can be fixed relatively simply by regulating the beat rate.

4. to put or keep something in good order or within reasonable limits.

   Playful interactions with adult caregivers help children develop the ability to regulate their emotions and behavior.

   Synonyms: balance

5. Biology.,  to adjust or adapt (a bodily process or function) in response to external stimuli.

6. Genetics.,  to control the expression of (a gene or genes).

regulate

/ ˈrɛɡjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. to adjust (the amount of heat, sound, etc, of something) as required; control

2. to adjust (an instrument or appliance) so that it operates correctly

3. to bring into conformity with a rule, principle, or usage

Other Word Forms

• regulatory adjective
• regulative adjective
• regulatively adverb
• misregulate verb (used with object)
• nonregulated adjective
• nonregulative adjective
• overregulate verb
• preregulate verb (used with object)
• quasi-regulated adjective
• reregulate verb (used with object)
• unregulated adjective
• unregulative adjective
• well-regulated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of regulate¹

First recorded in 1620–30, from Late Latin rēgulātus (past participle of rēgulāre “to direct”); regula, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of regulate¹

C17: from Late Latin rēgulāre to control, from Latin rēgula a ruler

Example Sentences

While in Europe sunscreen is classed as a cosmetic, Australia regulates it as a therapeutic good – essentially a medicine – which means it is subject to some of the most robust sunscreen regulations in the world.

From BBC

The tariff changes, which come into effect from 1 October, come as the Utility Regulator concluded its reviews of the regulated tariffs for Power NI, SSE Airtricity Gas Supply and Firmus Energy.

From BBC

Authorities obtained a search warrant for the property after receiving a report last month that someone at the property had a firearm, which are federally regulated in Canada.

From BBC

The NSTA's job is to "regulate and influence the oil and gas, offshore hydrogen, and carbon storage industries" as well as holding the sector to account on reducing its operational emissions.

From BBC

It also affects metabolism and helps regulate energy balance.

From BBC

Related Words

• adjust 
• administer 
• balance 
• classify 
• conduct 
• control 
• coordinate 
• determine 
• govern 
• handle 
• improve 
• monitor 
• oversee 
• readjust 
• rectify 
• standardize 
• supervise