regulator

Everyday

1. A regulator is a device that controls something, like the pressure of gas or water or the speed of a clock. tree →
2. A regulator is an official organisation that makes sure companies follow rules, such as for energy, water or TV. tree →

In the lessons

In science and technology it controls flow; in news and citizenship lessons, regulators watch over businesses. Phrases: pressure regulator, energy regulator.

Examples

• Divers use a regulator to breathe from their tank. tree →
• The regulator keeps the gas pressure steady. tree →
• The energy regulator decides price caps. tree →
• The TV regulator checked complaints. tree →
• A clock's regulator keeps the time correct. tree →
• The heating has a regulator to keep the room warm. tree →

Note

Countable. Verb: regulate. In diving, the regulator is the mouthpiece.