<p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used with object)<ul><li>To rule over by right of authority: to govern a nation.</li><li>Synonyms: reign</li><li>Antonyms: obey</li><li>To exercise a directing or restraining influence over; guide: the motives governing a decision.</li><li>Synonyms: superintend, supervise, conduct, influence, sway, control</li><li>To hold in check; control: to govern one's temper.</li><li>To serve as or constitute a law for: the principles governing a case.</li><li>Grammar: to be regularly accompanied by or require the use of (a particular form). In "They helped us," the verb "helped" governs the objective case of the pronoun "we."</li><li>To regulate the speed of (an engine) with a governor.</li></ul></li></ul><p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used without object)<ul><li>To exercise the function of government.</li><li>To have predominating influence.</li></ul></li></ul>