Control Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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control

[kษ™nหˆtrษ™สŠl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

system management

The power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events.

Synonyms

authority, command, power.

Examples of usage

  • The government has lost control over the situation.
  • She had complete control over her emotions.
Context #2 | Noun

device

A device or mechanism used for regulating or guiding the operation of a machine, vehicle, or system.

Synonyms

controller, governor, regulator.

Examples of usage

  • The car's cruise control helps maintain a constant speed on the highway.
  • He adjusted the temperature control on the air conditioner.
Context #3 | Verb

manage

To manage, direct, or oversee in order to achieve a particular result or objective.

Synonyms

direct, manage, regulate.

Examples of usage

  • She tried to control her anger and remain calm.
  • He controlled the company's finances with great skill.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In psychology, control refers to the ability to influence one's environment and behavior, linked to concepts of self-efficacy.
  • Cybernetics is a field that studies control systems, explaining how machines and living beings interact through feedback.
  • Biologically, homeostasis is a type of internal control that maintains stability in an organismโ€™s environment.

Pop Culture

  • The popular song 'Control' by Janet Jackson discusses themes of personal empowerment and self-determination.
  • In the film industry, many movies portray characters struggling for control, reflecting human desires and conflicts.
  • Video games often center around the theme of control, where players navigate challenges and direct outcomes.

Psychology

  • The need for control is a basic psychological drive, often linked to anxiety and stress management.
  • Locus of control is a concept that reflects whether individuals believe they have the power to influence events or are at the mercy of fate.
  • People with a strong internal locus of control tend to feel more empowered and motivated in their lives.

History

  • Throughout history, control has been a theme in political structures, as many leaders seek to maintain authority over their followers.
  • The concept of 'control' in economics relates to managing resources, illustrated by various historical governments and their policies.
  • In ancient civilizations, the ability to control land and water resources was fundamental for agricultural success.

Origin of 'control'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old French 'contrerole', meaning to check or verify.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'contrarotulus', meaning โ€˜a counter rollโ€™ or a duplicate roll to check accounts.
  • In the 14th century, British usage adapted the term to imply authority over something.

The word 'control' originates from the late Middle English word 'contrerolle', which came from Old French 'contrerole', a variant of 'contre-rolle'. The word 'control' has been used in the English language since the 15th century. It has roots in Latin 'contra-', meaning 'against', and 'rotulus', meaning 'a roll'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass a variety of meanings related to influence, regulation, and management.


See also: controlability, controllability, controllable, controlled, controlledly, controller, controllers, controlling, controls, incontrollable, uncontrollability, uncontrollable, uncontrollably, uncontrolled.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #183, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.