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
Synonyms of ruler
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
Targeting property Iran’s judiciary has begun seizing the property of public figures critical of the country’s rulers, under an anti-espionage law approved during last year’s 12-day war with Israel that punishes media and cultural activities deemed to support Iran’s enemies.
—
Amir-Hussein Radjy, Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2026
For decades, Iran’s rulers have quashed organized political opposition.
—Amir Hussein Radjy, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026
Iran’s judiciary has begun seizing the property of public figures critical of the country's rulers, under an anti-espionage law approved during last year’s 12-day war with Israel that punishes media and cultural activities deemed to support Iran's enemies.
—ABC News, 4 Apr. 2026
Although Cleopatra and Nefertiti are more well-known, Hatshepsut stands out as one of the most skilled and successful female rulers of the ancient world.
—Brittney Melton, NPR, 3 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ruler
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.
Amir-Hussein Radjy, Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2026
For decades, Iran’s rulers have quashed organized political opposition.
—Amir Hussein Radjy, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026
Iran’s judiciary has begun seizing the property of public figures critical of the country's rulers, under an anti-espionage law approved during last year’s 12-day war with Israel that punishes media and cultural activities deemed to support Iran's enemies.
—ABC News, 4 Apr. 2026
Although Cleopatra and Nefertiti are more well-known, Hatshepsut stands out as one of the most skilled and successful female rulers of the ancient world.
—Brittney Melton, NPR, 3 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ruler
Cite this Entry
“Ruler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruler. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
