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.
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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.
Other Eurasian emperors of the time also did not persecute occult practitioners as Ivan did in the lead-up to the second oprichnina, actions more in line with attitudes in early modern Christian Europe than those common among rulers of Asia. — Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026 In 1738-39, the Persian ruler Nader Shah defeated the Mughals in Delhi and reset the Koh-i-Noor into an armband. — Hadley Hall Meares, Vanity Fair, 17 Aug. 2026 Britannica Quiz The last Sur ruler, Adil Shah, lost the Bengal and Malwa regions during internal conflicts with Sher Shah’s nephews. — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 17 Aug. 2026 If Pisces was rising on the horizon at your time of birth, your money sector is ruled by go-getter Mars, celestial ruler of the bold and fearless sign of Aries. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 14 Aug. 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 20 Aug. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on ruler

Nglish: Translation of ruler for Spanish Speakers

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