ruler

noun

rul·​er ˈrü-lər How to pronounce ruler (audio)
1
: one that rules
specifically : sovereign
2
: a worker or a machine that rules paper
3
: a smooth-edged strip (as of wood or metal) that is usually marked off in units (such as inches) and is used as a straightedge or for measuring
rulership noun

Examples of ruler in a Sentence

a summit attended by a number of rulers from around the world This ruler shows inches and centimeters.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Your celestial ruler, Mars, is finally coming up for air, entering your Fire sign sibling Leo and your fifth house of creativity, romance and self-expression. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 3 Nov. 2024 This week, the Sun’s favorite planet is Saturn, the ruler of order, responsibility, and ambition. Jennifer Culp, Them, 1 Nov. 2024 On this day in 312: Roman Emperor Constantine the Great defeated the superior forces of his rival Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge, securing his position as the sole ruler of the Western Roman Empire. Mark Jones, The Arizona Republic, 28 Oct. 2024 The fervid love conquest inspires a wager between La Muerte (Kate del Castillo), ruler of the Land of the Remembered, and Xibalba (Ron Perlman), ruler of the Land of the Forgotten. Andrea Flores, Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ruler 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ruler was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near ruler

Cite this Entry

“Ruler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruler. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

ruler

noun
rul·​er ˈrü-lər How to pronounce ruler (audio)
1
2
: a straight strip of material (as wood or metal) marked off in units and used as a guide in drawing lines or for measuring

More from Merriam-Webster on ruler

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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