noun one who, or that which, regulates.
2. regulator ·noun a clock, or other timepiece, used as a standard of correct time. ·see astronomical clock (a), under clock.
3. regulator ·noun 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.
4. regulator ·noun 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.