rule out

verb

ruled out; ruling out; rules out

transitive verb

1
2
: to make impossible : prevent
heavy rain ruled out the picnic

Examples of rule out in a Sentence

another loss would rule them out of the tournament
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
These findings help rule out the possibility that the organic molecules originated from Ceres' interior. Victoria Corless, Space.com, 30 Jan. 2025 That rules out Obama, who served as president from 2009-2017, as well as Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Hannah Hudnall, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025 However, rule out medical causes before attributing this to age. Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025 Embiid, who is averaging 24.4 points and 7.9 rebounds, has already been ruled out against the Kings. Jason Anderson, Sacramento Bee, 29 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for rule out 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rule out was circa 1658

Dictionary Entries Near rule out

Cite this Entry

“Rule out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20out. Accessed 5 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

rule out

verb
: to eliminate the possibility of

More from Merriam-Webster on rule out

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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