any of various controls or devices for regulating or controlling fluid flow, pressure, temperature, etc.
"The technician adjusted the regulator to ensure the gas flowed at a steady rate into the tank."
an official responsible for control and supervision of a particular activity or area of public interest
"The financial regulator imposed new restrictions on banks to ensure they maintain adequate capital reserves."
A device that controls or limits something.
"The pressure regulator on the gas tank ensures the flow remains steady and safe."
In plain English: A regulator is something that controls how fast or much of something flows, works, or happens.
"The governor adjusted the thermostat to keep the room temperature at a comfortable level."
Usage: A regulator is specifically a mechanical device designed to control the flow, pressure, or speed of fluids and gases in systems like plumbing or engines. Do not confuse this technical term with someone who manages rules or policies; for people overseeing organizations, use "regulator" only when referring to an official body enforcing laws rather than individual leadership roles.
The word regulator comes from the Latin verb regulare, meaning to rule or direct, combined with the agent suffix -or. It entered English as a noun referring to someone or something that controls or maintains proper order.