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govern

gov·ern

govern

 
 
pronunciation:
guh vrn
features:
Word History, Word Builder, Word Explorer
part of speech: verb
inflections: governs, governing, governed
definition 1: to rule or lead.
The sheikh and his family governed the country.
synonyms:
dominate, lead, rule
similar words:
administer, command, control, direct, head, manage, regulate, supervise
definition 2: to control or hold back.
She governs her anger well.
synonyms:
bridle, control, curb, rein in, restrain, subdue
similar words:
check, discipline, harness, leash, master, tame
derivations: governable (adj.), governability (n.)
Word History
Govern comes from an ancient Greek word that meant "to steer or pilot (a ship)." From the Greek came the Latin word gubernare, meaning "to direct, rule, or guide."
Word Builder: govern +
  • governor:
    a person who governs. In the United States, a governor is the elected leader of a state.
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