abiding

To obey something, usually an established rule. Because Donna refuses to abide by her parents' rules, I worry that she'll be told to move out of their house. If you don't abide by the guidelines set by the review board, you might find yourself disqualified. The school threatens to expel any student who cannot abide by their rules and regulations.

To accept, follow, and comply with a decision, especially that which is handed down by a judge. Though it stings my dignity, I have to abide by the court's decision to not allow me to drive a car for the next 12 months. Yes, it's a harsh punishment, but I think that abiding by the decision could help him to repair his reputation with the public. No, I cannot abide by a decision as unjust as this one! My lawyer will be submitting an appeal first thing on Monday!

To stay or remain with someone. If you would like to rest for a while, you can abide with me. Well, someone should abide with you while you're sick, and I'm happy to do it. We'll abide with Grandma while you guys go into the store.

to follow the rules of something; to obey someone's orders. John felt that he had to abide by his father's wishes.

Accept and act in accordance with a decision or set of rules; also, remain faithful to. For example, All members must agree to abide by the club regulations, or A trustworthy man abides by his word. An older sense of the verb abide, "remain," is still familiar in the well-known 19th-century hymn "Abide with Me," which asks God to stay with the singer in time of trouble. [Early 1500s]

To conform to; comply with: abide by the rules.