government

Definition

The body with the power to make and/or enforce laws to control a country, land area, people or organization.

Etymology

From Middle English governement, from Old French governement (modern French gouvernement), from governer (see govern) + -ment. Morphologically govern + -ment. Displaced native Old English gerec, leodweard, ræden, rǣding and ealdordōm.

Example Sentences

• "British government has historically centred exclusively on London."
• "[…]and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
• "Investors face a quandary. Cash offers a return of virtually zero in many developed countries; government-bond yields may have risen in recent weeks but they are still unattractive. Equities have suffered two big bear markets since 2000 and are wobbling again. It is hardly surprising that pension funds, insurers and endowments are searching for new sources of return."

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