regulatory

[ reg-yuh-luh-tawr-ee ]

adjective

1. of or relating to the control or direction of an activity by a set of rules, laws, etc.:

   The Coast Guard is to be commended for this current regulatory effort, as their proposed restriction addresses many concerns of the seafaring community.

2. of or relating to the adjustment of a device, system, or organic function so as to meet a standard or the requirements of good operation:

   Earth's climate is a highly complex system with its own regulatory mechanisms.

Other Words From

• an·ti·reg·u·la·to·ry adjective
• non·reg·u·la·to·ry adjective
• un·reg·u·la·to·ry adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of regulatory¹

regulat(e) ( def ) + -ory ¹( def )

Example Sentences

These initiation sites contain regulatory elements and provide information to the cell about when and where to transcribe each gene to make protein, and how frequently to do so at any point in time.

From Science Daily

Recently EV25 was approved by the European and Belgian regulatory agencies to be used in a Phase 1 human trial that will conclude early next year.

From Science Daily

Crypto is expected to lobby for a more favorable regulatory environment, but also faces questions about who will keep campaign donors in check and consumers safe, Salon reported.

From Salon

The company pleaded guilty to a number of regulatory offences in 2022.

From BBC

In its latest annual survey, Atomico takes stock of how far the ecosystem has grown — and the challenges still holding it back, including regulatory concerns and access to later-stage capital.

From New York Times

Related Words

• administrative
• managerial