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Added 9 October 2026

govern

/ˈɡʌv.ən/ verb

In Latin: gubernō, regō Wiktionary

verb Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about govern at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

Bring into conformity with rules or principles or usage; impose regulations.
We cannot regulate the way people dress
Direct or strongly influence the behavior of.
His belief in God governs his conduct
Exercise authority over; as of nations.
Who is governing the country now?

Origin

From Middle English governen, governe, from Anglo-Norman and Old French governer, guverner, from Latin gubernō, from Ancient Greek κυβερνάω (kubernáō, “to steer, drive, govern”). Displaced native Old English wealdan, whence modern dialectical English wald (“to govern”).

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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