Wiktionary
vb. 1 (context transitive English) To accept a decision or law and act in accordance with it; to conform to; to acquiesce. 2 (context transitive English) To remain faithful to something or someone; to stand to; to adhere.
WordNet
v. act in accordance with someone's rules, commands, or wishes; "He complied with my instructions"; "You must comply or else!"; "Follow these simple rules"; "abide by the rules" [syn: comply, follow]
show respect towards; "honor your parents!" [syn: respect, honor, honour, observe] [ant: disrespect]
Usage examples of "abide by".
If the Vicar thinks this is wrong-then I'll abide by what he says.
In recent centuries we have agreed to abide by the peace and keep our distance.
With the council, it means that I get to vote, when issues come up, and that I have to abide by their rules.
If you do not agree to abide by all the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession.
I am going to get Aris to sign it, and I want you to read it and give me your word of honour as a gentleman that you will abide by it.
Far from agreeing to Henry's terms, the Scots became more bitter and tenacious, refusing to abide by the treaties with the English and reaffirming their ties to France.
She knows only the ways and manners of her mortal realm, and should not be expected to abide by ours.
The litigants were compelled to abide by the judgments, not merely because the decisions were always wise and creatively fair, but because the judges' race would, if its decisions were questioned as suspect, destroy itself.