noun / verb
control
kuhn-TROHL/kʌntrˈoʊl/
The power or act of directing or regulating something.
The man controls the dog by holding its leash firmly as it pulls.
Etymology
“Against” and “register” apparently refer to checking accounts against a duplicate register. The meaning broadened from verifying accuracy to regulating, directing, or restraining people and things.
In context
another classic technique of an emotionally abusive person is to control your access to finances
More examples
- He lost control of the bicycle on the gravel.
- A thermostat controls the room's temperature.
- She kept her voice under control during the argument.
Forms
control · controls · controlled · controlling
controller noun — A person or device directing operation