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.
Her cold, calculating demeanor and constant desire to be in authority also reflect Capricorn's planetary ruler, Saturn. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 4 Mar. 2025 Now, after 13 years of civil war and more than half a century of subjugation under the Assad regime, the Druze in Hader seem to have little appetite for taking their chances with the new ruler in Damascus. Uriel Heilman, New York Daily News, 2 Mar. 2025 Only The Beatles have collected more, as the British rock group snagged 19 rulers during the band’s time together and in the years following the break-up felt around the world. Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 His interest in sports analytics comes from his math teacher father, who handed out rulers to Trick-or-Treaters each year. Jesse Newell, Kansas City Star, 28 Feb. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Ruler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruler. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

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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