rule
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.1rule
noun \ˈrül\Definition of RULE
1
a : a prescribed guide for conduct or action b : the laws or regulations prescribed by the founder of a religious order for observance by its members c : an accepted procedure, custom, or habit d (1) : a usually written order or direction made by a court regulating court practice or the action of parties (2) : a legal precept or doctrine e : a regulation or bylaw governing procedure or controlling conduct
2
a (1) : a usually valid generalization (2) : a generally prevailing quality, state, or mode <fair weather was the rule yesterday — New York Times> b : a standard of judgment : criterion c : a regulating principle d : a determinate method for performing a mathematical operation and obtaining a certain result
3
4
a : a strip of material marked off in units used especially for measuring : ruler 3, tape measure b : a metal strip with a type-high face that prints a linear design; also : a linear design produced by or as if by such a strip
— as a rule
: for the most part : generally
See Examples of RULE
- I understand the basic rules of chess.
- As long as you're living under our roof, you'll follow our rules.
- The college has strict rules for qualifying for financial assistance.
- The new rule allows employees to dress casually on Fridays.
- Under the new rules, casual dress is now allowed.
- the company's rules and regulations
- It's important to learn the rules of the road before taking your driving test.
- It's against the rules to eat during class.
- He violated the unwritten rule that you must thank your host before you leave a party.
- If you break the rules, you'll be asked to leave.
Origin of RULE
Middle English reule, from Anglo-French, from Latin regula straightedge, rule, from regere to keep straight, direct — more at right
First Known Use: 13th century
Related to RULE
- Synonyms
- bylaw, ground rule, reg, regulation
See Synonym Discussion at law
Other Government and Politics Terms
2rule
verbruledrul·ing
Definition of RULE
transitive verb
1
a : to exert control, direction, or influence on <the passions that rule our minds> b : to exercise control over especially by curbing or restraining <rule a fractious horse> <ruled his appetites firmly>
2
a : to exercise authority or power over often harshly or arbitrarily <the speaker ruled the legislature with an iron hand> b : to be preeminent in : dominate
3
: to determine and declare authoritatively; especially : to command or determine judicially
4
a (1) : to mark with lines drawn along or as if along the straight edge of a ruler (2) : to mark (a line) on a paper with a ruler b : to arrange in a line
intransitive verb
1
a : to exercise supreme authority b : to be first in importance or prominence : predominate <the physical did not rule in her nature — Sherwood Anderson>
2
: to exist in a specified state or condition
3
: to lay down a legal rule
4
slang : to be extremely cool or popular —used as a generalized term of praise or approval <for a little attitude at the right price, sneakers rule — Tish Hamilton>
Examples of RULE
- The queen ruled for 25 years.
- A dynasty ruled over this region during the 11th century.
- Who will be the next leader to rule the country?
- All of his actions were ruled by his religion.
- The court ruled in favor of the defendant.
- The jury ruled against the tobacco companies.
- How will the court rule on the motion?
- The Supreme Court ruled the law unconstitutional.
- The board ruled that her behavior was cheating.
First Known Use of RULE
13th century
Learn More About RULE
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