Definition of regulate

The origin of the word "regulate" can be traced back to the Middle English verb "regelen," which means "to arrange, adjust, or settle." This word evolved from the Old French "regeler," which comes from the Latin "regulāre," which means "to enact laws, to manage or govern." The term "regulation" has been in use since the 14th century, describing a process of fixing or adjusting things independently or for the general welfare. Regulation became a popular term in the 18th century, especially in connection with the establishment of laws and rules for society in general, such as prices, weights, and measures. During the 19th century, the significance of regulation in trade and commerce expanded as it referred to the fair and regular conduct of business practices. The concept of regulating became more important in the US during this time as it related to the US Constitution's Commerce Clause, which provided the federal government with the power to regulate interstate commerce. The modern form of the verb "regulate" is derived from the Middle English "regelen" used since the 14th century. It means "to put in order," "to adjust," "to make consistent with a standard," "to enforce," or "to impose conformity upon." In conclusion, the term "regulate" is derived from Old French and Latin roots, meaning "to enact laws, to manage, or govern," and "to arrange, adjust, or settle," respectively, and has evolved over the centuries to refer to the fair and regular conduct of business practices, as well as the establishment of rules and laws for society in general. Its Derivatives range from regularization, self-regulation, regulationist, or a regulator, all expressing different principles based on the context.