What does it mean to "abide by" something?

"Abide by" means to conform to rules or regulations, indicating a sense of compliance and adherence to established guidelines. When someone abides by something, they are choosing to follow the rules or standards that have been put in place, often out of respect for authority or legal obligations. This term emphasizes the importance of maintaining rules and behaving in a way that aligns with them. In a broader context, abiding by laws, social norms, or agreements demonstrates respect for the structure within which society operates, highlighting accountability and responsibility in one's actions.