rule

For the rules of Simple English Wiktionary, see WT:Rules.

Pronunciation

• (UK) (US) IPA ^(key): /ruːl/ or [ruːɫ]

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Noun

Singular rule

Plural rules

1. (countable) A rule is a statement that tells whether something is right or wrong.
   • Synonyms: law, policy, guideline and standard

   Peter picked up the football, which was against the rules, so the other team got a throw-in.

2. (countable & uncountable) A king's rule is the time he controls the country.
   • Synonym: reign

   The next king had a very short rule: only two years.

3. (countable) A rule is another name for a ruler, a measuring device.
   • Synonym: ruler

Verb

Plain form rule

Third-person singular rules

Past tense ruled

Past participle ruled

Present participle ruling

1. When someone rules, he or she is in charge, like a king or queen.
   • Synonyms: control, govern and reign
   • Antonym: serve

   The king has ruled for 33 years.

Related words

• ruler
• unruled
• ruling
• principle