noun / verb
rule
A straightedge used to measure or guide lines.
She uses a steel rule to measure the board's width.
Etymology
Latin regula already named a straightedge. The physical tool preserves the literal guiding instrument behind the word’s broader sense of a standard.
More examples
- The folding rule fits neatly in his toolbox.
- Please rule a line beneath the heading.
- He ruled the paper into columns before entering the totals.
Forms
rule · rules · ruled · ruling
ruler noun — A straightedge for measuring or drawing lines.
Similar words
- ruler
- The more common everyday name for a marked measuring straightedge.
- straightedge
- Guides straight lines but need not have measurement markings.