Entry Word: govern

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to exercise authority or power over <the president is elected in order to govern the country>

Synonyms boss, captain, command, control, preside (over), rule

Related Words conduct, direct, head, lead; administer, manage, oversee, regulate, superintend, supervise; dictate, dominate, domineer, lord (it over), master, oppress, reign (over), tyrannize; conquer, subdue, subjugate

2 to keep from exceeding a desirable degree or level (as of expression) <you need to govern your speech and be able to communicate your frustration without resorting to profanity> — see control 1
3 to look after and make decisions about <the student councilʼs finances are governed by the treasurer> — see conduct 1