regulate

verb

REG-yuh-layt/ˈɹɛɡjəleɪt/

Formsregulates, regulating, regulated

4 meanings of regulate

1
verbtransitive
To control something by following rules or laws.
Like a referee who makes sure everyone follows the rules of a game.
Laws regulate how fast you can drive in town.
The city regulates where people can park their cars.
Similarcontrol, govern, manage, supervise
Oppositederegulate
Note
2
verbtransitive
To adjust a machine so it works correctly.
Like turning a knob until the music is just the right volume.
You can regulate the heater to keep the room warm.
She regulates the old clock every few weeks to keep it accurate.
Similaradjust, calibrate, set, tune
Note
3
verbtransitive
To put things in order and keep them that way.
Like keeping your room tidy so you can always find your things.
Good habits help you regulate your daily routine.
She regulates her sleep by going to bed at the same time each night.
Similarcontrol, manage, stabilize, balance
4
verbtransitive
To make the official rules that say how something must be done.
Like a school setting the rules that everyone has to follow.
The government will regulate how companies sell goods online.
New laws regulate what stores can do with your personal data.
Similarcontrol, govern, oversee, supervise
Oppositederegulate

Practice

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Origin

From Latin regulō "to direct, rule, regulate," which comes from regula "rule."