governs; governed; governing
1
: to officially control and lead (a group of people) : to make decisions about laws, taxes, social programs, etc., for (a country, state, etc.)
Members of the party have governed [=ruled] the country for the last 20 years.
The tribe is governed by a 10-member council.
They want to form their own country and govern themselves.
The scandal limited her ability to govern effectively.
How would he govern if he were elected president?
2
: to control the way that (something) is done
She suggested changing the state's laws governing the sale of alcohol.
The council governs fishing in the region.
3
: to control or guide the actions of (someone or something)
We will be studying the forces that govern the Earth's climate.
Tradition governs all aspects of their lives.
He allows himself to be governed by his emotions.
Cite this Entry
“Govern.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/govern. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
