house rule
noun
: a rule (as in a game) that applies only among a certain group or in a certain place
Examples of house rule in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
But house rules often differ by family or culture.
—
Ashley Parker, The Atlantic, 15 June 2026
If family dynamics feel tender, step back from blame and set a simple house rule that gives you breathing room without closing your heart.
—Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026
Also, arrive and depart on time, bring an item to share if it's requested, and generally respect the host's home and their house rules.
—Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 12 June 2026
Read reviews carefully — both of the home and the host — and vet host profiles by looking at photos, hosting history, guest feedback and house rules.
—Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 1 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for house rule
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.
Ashley Parker, The Atlantic, 15 June 2026
If family dynamics feel tender, step back from blame and set a simple house rule that gives you breathing room without closing your heart.
—Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026
Also, arrive and depart on time, bring an item to share if it's requested, and generally respect the host's home and their house rules.
—Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 12 June 2026
Read reviews carefully — both of the home and the host — and vet host profiles by looking at photos, hosting history, guest feedback and house rules.
—Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 1 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for house rule
Cite this Entry
“House rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/house%20rule. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
