# rule the roost

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/rule-the-roost
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be the controlling member(s) of a family, organization, or other group.

## Examples

- In their house, the youngest child seems to rule the roost.
- Even though he is not the official manager, he clearly rules the roost in that office.
- Despite the presence of several senior partners, the ambitious junior associate effectively ruled the roost during the high-stakes negotiations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.