Governable

/ˈɡʌvɚnəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Capable of being governed, ruled, controlled, or managed; willing or able to submit to authority.

Etymology

From French 'gouvernable', derived from Latin 'gubernare' (to steer or govern) plus the suffix '-able' (capable of being). The word has been in English since the 15th century.

Kelly Says

Medieval and Renaissance writers used 'governable' as a quality they wanted in citizens—it literally meant 'obedient,' which shows how language reflects the power structures of its time!

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