1. to officially control and make decisions for a country, state, or organization
2. to control or influence someone’s behavior or actions
3. to determine or control how something works or happens

Examples

• The president governs the country with the help of Congress.
• Democratic principles govern how we make decisions.
• She learned to govern her temper during stressful situations.
• Physical laws govern the movement of planets.
• The school board governs all public schools in the district.
• He must govern his spending to stay within budget.
• The constitution governs the rights of all citizens.