WordGarden.ioruler
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /rˈuːlə/
US
- /ˈrulər/
Meanings
Noun
a straight measuring stick used to measure or draw lines
a person who governs a country or state
Beyond the definition
A ruler can mean two common things. It can be a person who controls a country or land, such as a king, queen, or other leader. It can also be the straight tool you use to measure length or draw a clean line on paper.
Think about an old kingdom with one person in charge: that person is the ruler. Then think about school or art class, where you use a ruler to make straight lines. The same word works in both cases, but the meaning is usually clear from the situation.
The word "ruler" has two main meanings in English. One meaning is a person who has power over a country, state, or people. In history books, you often read about rulers such as kings, queens, emperors, or other heads of state. In this sense, the word suggests authority and control. For example: "The ruler changed the laws of the kingdom."
The other common meaning is a flat tool used for measuring and drawing straight lines. This is the meaning most learners meet in school. A ruler is often made of plastic, wood, or metal, and it usually shows inches or centimeters. For example: "She used a ruler to draw a straight line across the page."
Context normally makes the meaning clear right away. If people are talking about history, government, or power, "ruler" usually means a leader. If they are talking about school, drawing, or measurement, it usually means the tool. These two meanings are different, but both are standard and very common in English.
Examples
- 1
Measuring tool
Use a ruler to draw a straight line across the page.
- 2
Units
This ruler shows both inches and centimeters.
- 3
Political leader
The ruler of the island met with foreign leaders.
- 4
Ancient power
Some ancient rulers built huge monuments to display their power.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Leadership style
People remembered her as a firm but fair ruler.
See also
Similar
- measuring stick
- rule
Shades of meaning
- straightedge
- yardstick
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- wooden ruler
- metric ruler
- use a ruler
- draw a line with a ruler
Explore
- measurement
- tape measure
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- rulernoun
Forms
- rulerspluralnoun