noun a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior
noun something regarded as a normative example
noun prescribed guide for conduct or action
noun (linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice
noun a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
noun dominance or power through legal authority
noun a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
noun (mathematics) a standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems
noun measuring stick consisting of a strip of wood or metal or plastic with a straight edge that is used for drawing straight lines and measuring lengths
verb exercise authority over; as of nations
verb decide with authority
verb be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance
verb decide on and make a declaration about
Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University