'Regulator' definitions:

Definition of 'regulator'

(from WordNet)
noun
Any of various controls or devices for regulating or controlling fluid flow, pressure, temperature, etc.
noun
An official responsible for control and supervision of a particular activity or area of public interest
noun
A control that maintains a steady speed in a machine (as by controlling the supply of fuel) [syn: governor, regulator]

Definition of 'Regulator'

From: GCIDE
  • Regulator \Reg"u*la`tor\ (-l?`t?r), n.
  • 1. One who, or that which, regulates. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. A clock, or other timepiece, used as a standard of correct time. See Astronomical clock (a), under Clock. [1913 Webster]
  • 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.] [1913 Webster]
  • A few stood neutral, or declared in favor of the Regulators. --Bancroft. [1913 Webster]