Ruler
'ruːlər
Definitions
2 meaningsA person who exercises government or control over a people, territory, or organization.
'ruːlər
A person who rules or governs a country or territory.
The benevolent ruler implemented policies that benefited the entire population.
💡 Simply: Imagine the king or queen of a country. They're the ruler! They make the rules and make sure everyone follows them. Like the principal at school, or the boss at work.
👶 For kids: Someone who is in charge and makes decisions for a place or group of people, like a king or queen.
More Examples
History books often recount the lives of powerful rulers.
The country has been under the rule of a dictator for many years.
How It's Used
"The new ruler of the kingdom implemented many changes."
"Cleopatra was a famous ruler of Egypt."
An instrument, typically a straight strip of wood or plastic, marked at intervals, used for measuring lengths or drawing straight lines.
'ruːlər
A straight-edged strip of rigid material, typically marked at regular intervals, used for measuring lengths or drawing straight lines.
She used a ruler to measure the length of the paper.
💡 Simply: It's a flat stick with lines on it that helps you measure how long something is or draw a straight line, like when you're doing your homework and need to draw a straight line or measure your pencil.
👶 For kids: A long, straight stick that helps you measure things or draw straight lines.
More Examples
The architect needed a precise ruler to create the blueprints.
A ruler is an essential tool for geometry class.
How It's Used
"Use a ruler to draw a straight line."
"The engineer used a ruler to measure the precise dimensions."
Idioms & expressions
rule of thumb
A practical and approximate way of doing or measuring something, based on experience rather than precise calculations.
"As a rule of thumb, you should budget 20% of your income for savings."
rule the roost
To be in charge; to dominate; to be the boss.
"After her husband's death, the widow started to rule the roost at home."
From Middle English rulere, from Old English rīcere ('governor, ruler'), from rīcan ('to rule') and -ere (agent suffix).
The word 'ruler' has been used in English since Old English times, primarily referring to a leader or governor.
Memory tip
Think of someone holding the reigns, controlling things.
Word Origin
"one who rules or governs"