What does "regulate" mean?

1. (to control by rules) to control an activity or process by using official rules or laws. 2. (to adjust a mechanism) to adjust a piece of equipment so that it works at the right speed or temperature. 3. (biological control) the way a living thing controls its own internal systems, like body heat.

How do you use "regulate"?

Often used in the passive voice when discussing industries or markets. Takes a direct object, usually a physical property like 'flow', 'temperature', or 'pressure'.

regulate

US //ˈɹɛɡjəˌɫeɪt// UK //ɹˈɛɡjuːlˌeɪt// reg·u·late

1 to control by rules (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Law

to control an activity or process by using official rules or laws.

to control or direct a process, industry, or activity according to a set of rules, principles, or legislation.

Example

The government needs to regulate the banking industry to prevent another financial crisis.

Example

National authorities must regulate the disposal of industrial waste to ensure that local ecosystems are protected from chemical contamination.

Usage

Often used in the passive voice when discussing industries or markets.
- deregulate
2 to adjust a mechanism (v.)
C1 Advanced Technical Science

to adjust a piece of equipment so that it works at the right speed or temperature.

to adjust a mechanism or physical system to ensure accurate and proper functioning.

Example

This valve helps to regulate the flow of water through the pipes.

Example

The internal thermostat is designed to regulate the temperature of the server room, preventing the hardware from overheating during peak usage.

Usage

Takes a direct object, usually a physical property like 'flow', 'temperature', or 'pressure'.

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3 biological control (v.)
C1 Advanced Academic Technical Science

the way a living thing controls its own internal systems, like body heat.

to govern or direct the internal physiological processes of an organism.

Example

Sweating is one way the human body helps to regulate its temperature.

Example

The endocrine system works to regulate various biological functions by releasing hormones directly into the bloodstream.
- balance
- coordinate

Origin

Borrowed from Latin regulatus, perfect passive participle of regulō (“to direct, rule, regulate”) (see -ate (verb-forming suffix)), from regula (“rule”), from regō (“to keep straight, direct, govern, rule”). Compare regle, rail. Displaced native Old English metegian.