Definition

1. Noun:
   • A mechanism that controls the operation of a machine: A device or component that regulates the function, speed, or output of a system.
   • A person who directs and restrains: An individual responsible for managing, supervising, or regulating activities, finances, or operations.
   • Someone who maintains and audits business accounts: Specifically, a financial officer responsible for overseeing accounting and budgetary matters.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Mechanism):
  • The temperature controller in the oven keeps it at a constant heat.
  • He adjusted the game controller to improve his character's movement.
• Noun (Person - Director/Restrainer):
  • The air traffic controller guided the plane safely to the runway.
  • She was appointed as the new controller of the manufacturing division.
• Noun (Person - Financial Officer):
  • The corporate controller presented the annual budget report.
  • All expenditures must be approved by the financial controller.

Advanced Usage

• "To act as a controller": To function in a role that manages or regulates.
  • In her new position, she will act as the controller for all regional projects.
• "Under the controller's supervision": Being managed or overseen by the controller.
  • The audit was conducted under the controller's direct supervision.

Variants and Related Words

• Comptroller (noun): A variant spelling, often used for specific financial officer titles, especially in government or formal corporate contexts.
  • The state comptroller is responsible for auditing public funds.
• Control (verb/noun): The root word meaning to exercise restraint or direction; the power to influence.
• Controllable (adjective): Capable of being controlled or managed.

Synonyms

• Regulator: For a mechanism or person that controls a process.
• Supervisor: For a person who oversees operations.
• Director: For a person in a leading managerial role.
• Auditor: Specifically for the financial sense.

Related Phrases

• Financial controller: A specific title for the head of accounting in a company.
  • The financial controller ensures all bookkeeping complies with the law.
• Game controller: A handheld device used to operate video games.
  • He bought a new wireless game controller for his console.
• Traffic controller: A person who directs the movement of vehicles or aircraft.
  • The traffic controller managed the flow of cars during the parade.

Idioms

• To be in the controller's seat: To be in a position of authority or control.
  • With the CEO on leave, the vice president is in the controller's seat.
• To pass the controller: To hand over control or responsibility to someone else.
  • After a long shift, the air traffic controller passed the controller to his colleague.

Noun

1. a mechanism that controls the operation of a machine
   • the speed controller on his turntable was not working properly
   • I turned the controls over to her
2. a person who directs and restrains
3. someone who maintains and audits business accounts