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.
Tonight, Venus, your ruler, meets the Sun and could illuminate how your values have shifted during its retrograde. — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 23 Oct. 2026 As ruler of the Olympian gods, Zeus occupied a central position in Greek mythology; following Rome’s conquest of Greece, he became associated with the Roman god Jupiter while continuing to be depicted according to classical sculptural conventions. — Anne Doran, ARTnews.com, 22 Oct. 2026 Ant Design rounds out the Apex V2 with a few extra features, starting with a ruler marked in inches and millimeters on the chassis. — New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026 Two lasers replace hardware Optical frequency combs work much like rulers for light. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 17 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 27 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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