ruler

noun

rul·​er ˈrü-lər How to pronounce ruler (audio)
Synonyms of rulernext
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
ˈrü-lər-ˌship How to pronounce ruler (audio)
noun

Synonyms of ruler

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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.
Mercury, your ruler, moves through your 6th House and quincunxes Saturn in your 11th, revealing friction between everyday responsibilities and what friends, groups, or future plans are asking from you. — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 9 Oct. 2026 As Silverhand’s consciousness begins overwriting V’s own, the two must work together to separate from each other and save V’s life by confronting the Arasaka Corporation, a powerful megacorporation acting as the de facto ruler of the city. — Justin Kroll, Deadline, 8 Oct. 2026 There are political factors at play too, given Manchester City is owned by the vice president of the UAE, who is also the brother of that country’s ruler. — Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 7 Oct. 2026 The 1970s marked a reinvigoration in quilting culture, with the introduction of specialty rulers and rotary cutters for use with modern patterns. — Tania Azhang, Sacbee.com, 7 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing ruler

Rhymes for ruler

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Browse Nearby Words

rule out of
ruler
rulership
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Cite this Entry

“Ruler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruler. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

ruler

noun
rul·​er ˈrü-lər How to pronounce ruler (audio)
1
: sovereign entry 1 sense 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
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