regime

American  

[ruh-zheem, rey-, -jeem] / rəˈʒim, reɪ-, -ˈdʒim /

Or régime

noun

1. a mode or system of rule or government.

   a dictatorial regime.

2. a ruling or prevailing system.

3. a government in power.

4. the period during which a particular government or ruling system is in power.

5. Medicine/Medical. regimen.

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regime British  

/ reɪˈʒiːm /

noun

1. a system of government or a particular administration

   a fascist regime

   the regime of Fidel Castro

2. a social system or order

3. med another word for regimen

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regime Cultural  

1. An administration, or a system of managing government.

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Etymology

Origin of regime

First recorded in 1770–80; from French régime, from Latin regimen regimen

Explanation

A regime is the ruling government of a country. The amount of freedom and restriction that citizens of a country have can change from regime to regime. Regime takes its militaristic and government feel from the Latin word regimen "to rule." A political regime has a negative association to it that makes you think of totalitarian governments. How did it come to mean "diet" or "program of exercise" as well? If you are put on a regime of exercise and healthy eating, you are ordered by a doctor to do these things and it probably feels like you're being ruled sometimes!

Example Sentences

It became a rallying cry for activists over the following seven years, culminating in a movement in June 1987 which toppled Chun's regime.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

Because the big takeaway, ultimately far more significant than any regime change or reshuffling of alliances, is that the president has unintentionally kicked off a global race to renewable energy.

From Salon • May 16, 2026

"However, there are limits to what China can realistically do, as the Iranian regime is operating in survival mode and will prioritise its own interests," The Economist's Yue said.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

"He benefits from an exceptional visitation regime, which allows for frequent contact with his friends and family, including the possibility of family members to be present with him during his final moments," the ruling said.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

The regime was going insane, issuing the most ludicrous regulations.

From "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez

Related Words

• administration
• establishment
• government
• management
• reign
• rule
• system