regulator etymology

Etymology

  • Origin: Latin regulare ("to make straight")
  • Related words: regulate, regular, regulation

Meaning

  • A person or thing that controls or directs something.
  • A device that automatically maintains a desired value of a physical quantity (such as temperature or pressure).

Historical Development of the Term

The term "regulator" has been used in various contexts throughout history:

  • 14th century: Originally referred to a person who drew up rules or regulations.
  • 16th century: Used to describe a mechanical device used to control the flow of liquid or gas.
  • 18th century: Applied to devices used to regulate the speed of machines or the temperature of rooms.
  • 19th century: Expanded to include automatic control systems and devices used in industrial processes.

Current Usage

Today, the term "regulator" is widely used in fields such as:

  • Biology: Hormones or other substances that control physiological processes.
  • Economics: Governmental bodies that regulate economic activity (e.g., Federal Reserve).
  • Electrical engineering: Devices that control the voltage or current in an electrical system.
  • Mechanical engineering: Devices that maintain a desired speed, pressure, or temperature.
  • Physics: Devices or forces that control or stabilize a system.

regulator relate terms

  • regulate

    Etymology The word regulate originates from the Latin word regularis meaning accor

  • governor

    Etymology The word governor originates from the Old French word governeur which is

  • official

    Etymology Official is derived from the Middle French word official which in turn come

  • controller

    Etymology of Controller The word controller has its roots in Old French where it is

  • escape

    Etymology and Meaning of Escape Origin Old French escaper 12th century Late Latin ex

  • faucet

    Etymology The word faucet is derived from the Old French word faucet which in turn

  • draft

    Etymology Draft derives from the Middle English word draught which in turn comes fro

  • register

    Etymology The word register has its origins in Latin Meaning To record officially

  • control

    Etymology Latin controllus meaning check restraint French contrôle English

  • spigot

    Etymology The word spigot has its origins in two possible sources Old French espi