n a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior
n something regarded as a normative example
n prescribed guide for conduct or action
n (linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice
n a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
n the duration of a monarch's or government's power
n dominance or power through legal authority
n directions that define the way a game or sport is to be conducted
n any one of a systematic body of regulations defining the way of life of members of a religious order
n a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
n (mathematics) a standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems
n measuring stick consisting of a strip of wood or metal or plastic with a straight edge that is used for drawing straight lines and measuring lengths
v exercise authority over; as of nations
v decide with authority
v be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance
v decide on and make a declaration about
v have an affinity with; of signs of the zodiac
v mark or draw with a ruler
v keep in check
