Rule

/ruːl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An explicit or understood regulation or principle governing conduct or procedure within a particular area of activity.

The school has a strict no-phone rule during class hours.

A prescribed guide for conduct or action.

Following the rules of the game ensures fair play.

A normal or customary state or condition.

It is the rule rather than the exception for the library to be quiet.

verb

To exercise control or dominion over; to govern.

The king ruled the kingdom with wisdom and fairness.

To determine or declare authoritatively or arbitrarily.

The judge ruled that the evidence was admissible in court.

To decide or make a ruling regarding something.

They ruled out the possibility of a rematch.

Middle English reule, from Old French reule, from Latin regula 'a straight stick, rule, model'.

break the rules

To act in a way that is against the rules.

state of rule

A situation where a particular authority is in control.

rule of thumb

A general principle derived from practice or experience rather than theory.

send someone to the rulebook

To refer to established guidelines or regulations for guidance.

ruler

A person who governs or a tool used for measuring.

regulate

To control or maintain the rate or speed of a machine or process.

regulation

A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.

To dominate or lead in a particular situation.

In this game, I rule!

To be exceptionally good at something.

You really rule at soccer!