governance
Americannoun
-
government, control, or authority
-
the action, manner, or system of governing
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of governance
1325–75; Middle English governaunce < Old French < Medieval Latin gubernantia; see govern, -ance
Explanation
You've heard of governors and government, and governance is related. It’s the nuts and bolts of how towns or states or countries operate, and it can also apply to companies. Corporate governance is how large companies are organized and run. Governments use the powers you give it to pass laws and enforce them, fix your roads, collect taxes — all those things you can’t do alone — and the act of doing that is called governance. Corporations have their own sort of government — they're run by boards of directors who tackle issues of governance, making sure the company is run responsibly. Scholars study theories of governance — ideas about how society should be organized to benefit everyone.
Vocabulary lists containing governance
100 SAT Words Beginning with "G"
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Content Summary 5.6: Reactions to Imperialism
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The plan says Hamas – which led the deadly attack and mass hostage taking in Israel in October 2023, triggering the war – should have no role in future governance.
From BBC • May 7, 2026
"Our role is to quietly provide governance and operational support so that the incredible volunteers can continue to do what they do best and run the food share," said Kirsty Price, the cathedral's commercial manager.
From BBC • May 6, 2026
Despite his lack of governance know-how, Pratt is versed in the art of spectacle.
From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026
“It allows them to retain meaningful ownership and governance influence while gaining exposure to a larger, more resilient gold company with enhanced scale, diversification and balance sheet strength.”
From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026
"The kingdom of Orléans is ruled by queens; the crown is passed down through the women of your family. Queens ensure the proper governance of the kingdom and maintenance of its well-being."
From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
