Main Entry: re·gent

Pronunciation: \ˈrē-jənt\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French or Medieval Latin; Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin regent-, regens, from Latin, present participle of regere to direct — more at right

Date: 15th century

1 : a person who governs a kingdom in the minority, absence, or disability of the sovereign
2 : a person who rules or reigns : governor
3 : a member of a governing board (as of a state university)

— regent adjective

— re·gent·al \-jən-t^əl\ adjective