English Reference
noun

governance

n.
US /ˈɡəvɝnəns/ UK /ɡˈʌvənəns/ gov·er·nance

  1. 01 C1 Advanced AcademicFormal

    the way that a city, country, or large organization is managed and controlled.

    the exercise of authority and control over a political or corporate entity. Uncountable in its abstract sense.

    Simple

    The country needs better governance to help its economy grow.

    In context

    The international community called for improved governance and transparency to ensure that the aid reached the citizens who needed it most.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced AcademicFormal

    the rules and systems a company uses to make sure it is run fairly and legally.

    the framework of rules and practices by which a board of directors ensures accountability, fairness, and transparency in a company's relationship with its stakeholders.

    Simple

    The bank changed its corporate governance rules after the financial crisis.

    In context

    Effective corporate governance requires a clear separation of powers between the chief executive and the board of directors to prevent conflicts of interest.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency AcademicFormal

    the condition of being under the control or influence of a system of rules.

    the state or condition of being governed or regulated by a specific authority.

    Simple

    The remote islands were under the governance of a distant colonial power.

    In context

    The transition from military rule to democratic governance proved to be a complex process that lasted over a decade.

This has given the group tax and regulatory advantages, and allows it to carry out charitable activities, but experts say that its dual non-profit and commercial objectives have sometimes led to governance issues.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026

To address rising youth unemployment, the report recommends adopting a human-centred approach to AI governance, investing in quality education, strengthening employment services, expanding social protection and creating more decent job opportunities.

UN News· 11 Aug 2026

From Middle English governaunce, from Old French gouvernance, governance, equivalent to govern + -ance.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Old French gouvernance
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated