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