Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Regulator
Reg′u-laˊtor
(-l?ˊt?r)
, Noun.
1.
One who, or that which, regulates.
2.
(Mach.)
A contrivance for regulating and controlling motion
, as:
(a)
The lever or index in a watch, which controls the effective length of the hairspring, and thus regulates the vibrations of the balance.
(b)
The governor of a steam engine.
(c)
A valve for controlling the admission of steam to the steam chest, in a locomotive.
3.
A clock, or other timepiece, used as a standard of correct time. See
Astronomical clock
(a)
, under Clock
. 4.
A member of a volunteer committee which, in default of the lawful authority, undertakes to preserve order and prevent crimes; also, sometimes, one of a band organized for the comission of violent crimes.
[U.S.]
A few stood neutral, or declared in favor of the
Regulators
. Bancroft.
Webster 1828 Edition
Regulator
REG'ULATOR
, n.1.
One who regulates.2.
The small spring of a watch, which regulates its motions by retarding or accelerating them.3.
Any part of a machine which regulates its movements.