Rut

/rʌt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A deep track that is made by the repeated passage of the wheels of vehicles.

The truck created a deep rut in the muddy field as it drove through.

A fixed or established mode of procedure or behavior; a monotonous routine.

She felt stuck in a rut, doing the same thing every day without excitement.

The period of time during which certain animals are in heat and ready to mate.

The deer were in rut, making them more active and territorial.

verb

To make a rut in something.

The heavy equipment rutted the soft ground, making it difficult to walk.

Middle English 'rut', from Old English 'rutt' meaning a track or furrow.

get in a rut

To become stuck in a monotonous routine.

stuck in a rut

Experiencing a situation that is unchanging and unproductive.

rut season

Referring to the breeding season of certain animals.

groove

A long, narrow cut or depression.

track

A path or road used for some purpose.

depression

A low area or hollow.

Feeling stuck or unable to progress.

I’ve been in a bit of a rut lately; I need to shake things up.

A state of boredom or lack of motivation.

After months of the same routine, he realized he was in a rut.