regulation
UK: ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn | US: ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn
n. 1. A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.
n. 2. The action or process of controlling or maintaining a system.
n. 3. The state of being controlled or standardized.
regulation = regul<rule> + ation<noun suffix>
- regul (from Latin regula "rule, straight stick") → Implies guidance or standardization.
- ation (Latin-derived noun suffix) → Indicates the result or process of an action.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin regula (a measuring stick or rule), reflecting the idea of imposing order or standards. Over time, regulare (to control by rules) evolved into Old French régulation, later adopted into English with the same core meaning of systematic control. The suffix -ation solidifies its noun form, emphasizing the concept of enforced order.
The new regulation limits industrial emissions.
Financial markets require strict regulation to prevent fraud.
Self-regulation is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The government passed a regulation on food safety standards.
Traffic regulation ensures smooth flow on busy roads.