governor
UK: ˈɡʌvənə | US: ˈɡʌvərnər
n. 1. An official appointed to govern a region or state.
n. 2. The executive head of a U.S. state.
n. 3. A device that regulates speed or control in machinery.
The word "governor" traces back to the Latin verb gubernare (to steer, direct), which itself was borrowed from Greek kybernan (to pilot a ship). The metaphorical shift from "steering a ship" to "guiding a state" reflects the ancient view of leadership as navigation. The suffix -or (from Latin -ator) marks the agent, creating a term for "one who governs." Over time, "governor" expanded from political roles to mechanical contexts (e.g., speed regulators), retaining the core idea of control.
The governor announced new policies to improve education.
California's governor addressed the climate crisis in a press conference.
The engine's governor prevents overheating by limiting RPMs.
Colonial governors were appointed by the British monarchy.
She aspired to become the first female governor of her state.