1. past tense of govern; to exercise control or authority over a country, organization, or group of people
2. to influence or determine the actions or behavior of someone or something
3. to be the deciding factor in something; to limit or restrict

Examples

• The president governed the country for eight years.
• Laws govern how businesses operate in this state.
• Her decisions were governed by practical concerns rather than emotions.
• The rules that governed the competition were clearly posted.
• A strict budget governed their spending.
• The council governed the city with fairness and transparency.