regulator

noun

reg·​u·​la·​tor ˈre-gyə-ˌlā-tər How to pronounce regulator (audio)
also ˈrā-
Synonyms of regulatornext
1
: one that regulates
2

Examples of regulator in a Sentence

the voltage regulator will make sure your car's alternator gets the right amount of electricity
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
State air regulators recently approved updates to the program that could halve a pot of money the state receives from allowance sales to fund climate, transportation and other initiatives. CBS News, 30 June 2026 Many regulators and agencies are targeting migration away from classical public-key cryptography in the early 2030s. Maman Ibrahim, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 Paramount also must win the approval of British and European regulators, who are known for drilling deeply into media matters because of their influence on society. Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026 The recall affects certain 2018-21 Navigator, Expedition, 2020-21 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator and 2021 F-150 vehicles, the regulator said. Reuters, NBC news, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for regulator

Word History

First Known Use

1648, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of regulator was in 1648

Cite this Entry

“Regulator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/regulator. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

regulator

noun
reg·​u·​la·​tor ˈreg-yə-ˌlāt-ər How to pronounce regulator (audio)
1
: one that regulates
2

Legal Definition

regulator

noun
reg·​u·​la·​tor ˈre-gyə-ˌlā-tər How to pronounce regulator (audio)
: one (as a government agency) that regulates

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