rule over
Exercise supreme authority
To rule over is to govern or exercise authority and control over people, territory, or a domain.
Monarchs rule over kingdoms, emperors over empires: The dynasty ruled over China for three centuries.
The phrase emphasizes dominion and the hierarchical relationship between ruler and ruled, whether literal or figurative: She rules over her department with an iron fist.
- commandAuthoritative instruction given
- hold swayWield commanding influence
- throneCeremonial chair for sovereigns
- seat of powerGoverning authority's location
- crownSovereign's ornamental headpiece
authority · control · hierarchy · dominion · order · hegemony · dictatorship · sovereignty · iron fist · subjugation · power grab · empire · subject · patriarchy · feudal lord · administration · caste · governance