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nonruling

adjective non·rul·ing \ ˌnän-ˈrü-liŋ \

Definition of nonruling

: not exerting power or authority : not ruling
  • nonruling parties
  • Thus 1100-1250 will be designated as Early Middle English, when only the nonruling classes used English.
  • —Garland Cannon

First Known Use of nonruling

1832

in the meaning defined above

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2

nonruling

noun

Definition of nonruling

plural nonrulings
: lack or absence of a ruling : the failure or refusal to issue a decisive ruling (as by a judge or governmental agency)
  • For strict constructionists, the nonruling allows the culture to sort out the arguments consistent with what clearly are changing social mores.
  • —Cal Thomas

First Known Use of nonruling

1971

in the meaning defined above

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