govern
UK: ˈɡʌvən | US: ˈɡʌvərn
vt. to control and direct the public business of a country, city, or group of people
vt. to influence or regulate (actions, behavior, or decisions)
vi. to exercise authority or control
The word "govern" originates from the Latin gubernare, meaning "to steer or direct a ship," which metaphorically extended to "to rule or guide a state." This Latin term itself was borrowed from the Greek kybernan (to steer). Over time, the spelling evolved in Old French to governer, and later into Middle English as "govern." The shift from physical steering to political control reflects the conceptual link between navigation and leadership.
The elected officials govern the country according to the constitution.
Laws are created to govern human behavior in society.
She struggled to govern her emotions during the debate.
The committee was formed to govern the use of shared resources.
Ancient philosophers debated the best way to govern a just society.