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
Examples of ruler in a Sentence
a summit attended by a number of rulers from around the world
This ruler shows inches and centimeters.
Recent Examples on the Web
To ensure immortality, dead rulers’ bodily orifices were even plugged with precious jade.
—
Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 May 2024
Iran’s clerical rulers are grappling with an economic crisis and widespread domestic discontent.
—Leily Nikounazar, New York Times, 22 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for ruler 
Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 May 2024
Iran’s clerical rulers are grappling with an economic crisis and widespread domestic discontent.
—Leily Nikounazar, New York Times, 22 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for ruler
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ruler.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near ruler
Cite this Entry
“Ruler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruler. Accessed 3 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
ruler
noun
rul·er
ˈrü-lər 
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
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