regulatory

American  

[reg-yuh-luh-tawr-ee] / ˈrɛg yə ləˌtɔr i /

Sometimes regulative

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.

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Other Word Forms

• antiregulatory adjective
• nonregulatory adjective
• unregulatory adjective

Etymology

Origin of regulatory

regulat(e) ( def. ) + -ory ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

There is also the potential for lowering costs as the bank moves through its regulatory transformation, as well as removing stranded costs from exited businesses.

From The Wall Street Journal

They include the rule of law and a lack of regulatory capriciousness in the U.S.

From Barron's

A Tuesday regulatory filing reporting Abel’s 2026 salary didn’t disclose any other pay or perks he might receive.

From The Wall Street Journal

Outside Regeneron’s product portfolio, developments on the regulatory front could drive the stock higher.

From Barron's

By late 2022, with mounting losses and regulatory probes under way, Goldman did an about-face and began a slow and costly exit from consumer lending.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• administrative
• managerial