rutter

1 of 2

noun (1)

rut·​ter
ˈrətə(r)
plural -s
archaic
: a horseman or trooper originally of German forces common in the 15th and 16th centuries

rutter

2 of 2

noun (2)

"
plural -s
1
: one that ruts
2
: a plow for cutting ruts in a logging road for the runners of the sleds to run in

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Dutch ruiter, from Middle Dutch ruter, rutter, ruiter, from Old French routier, from route band, troop, route + -ier

Noun (2)

rut entry 4 + -er

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1506, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1897, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of rutter was in 1506

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near rutter

Cite this Entry

“Rutter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rutter. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!