WordNet sense 1 (dominance or power through legal authority):

dominion

WordNet sense 2 ((linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice):

linguistic rule

WordNet sense 3 (prescribed guide for conduct or action):

prescript

WordNet sense 4 (a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct):

principle

WordNet sense 5 (something regarded as a normative example):

convention, formula, normal, pattern

WordNet sense 6 (a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior):

regulation

WordNet sense 7 (measuring stick consisting of a strip of wood or metal or plastic with a straight edge that is used for drawing straight lines and measuring lengths):

ruler

WordNet sense 8 (be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance):

dominate, predominate, prevail, reign

WordNet sense 9 (exercise authority over; as of nations):

govern

WordNet sense 10 (decide on and make a declaration about):

find

WordNet sense 11 (decide with authority):

decree

WordNet sense 12 (keep in check):

harness, rein