1670s, "act of regulating; state of being reduced to order," noun of action from regulate. Meaning "rule for management" is from 1715. Related: Regulations.
regulation reg·u·la·tion (rěg'yə-lā'shən)
n.
The act of regulating or the state of being regulated.
A principle, rule, or law designed to control or govern conduct.
A governmental order having the force of law.
The capacity of an embryo to continue normal development following injury to or alteration of a structure.
Laws through which governments can control privately owned businesses.