The term 'abides' is a 6-letter word that means to comply with or obey. It is derived from the Old English word 'abidan, ' which means to wait or remain. Abiding by something implies that one is following the rules or regulations set forth by a particular authority. This could be a law, a code of conduct, or even a moral code. Abiding by something also implies that one is being respectful and honoring the wishes of the authority in question.