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Definition of ruler

ruler

/ˈruːlər/
ru · ler
Plural:rulers
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ruler Lexical Profile

ruler Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A straight strip of rigid material, typically marked at regular intervals and used to draw straight lines or measure distances.

Example

"The architecture student used a metal ruler to draw perfectly straight lines on her schematic diagram."

2

A person exercising government or sovereign power over a territory or people.

Example

"The ancient Egyptian ruler was believed by his subjects to be a living god."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ruler

• Rhymes for ruler

• Nearby Words

ruiz
ruki
ruki river
ruler
rum
rumex
rummynose tetra

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'reuler' (one who governs) and 'reule' (measuring stick), originating from Old French 'reule', which derives from Latin 'regula' meaning 'straight stick' or 'standard'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ruler. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 18, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ruler
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