ruler
- 01 A1 Beginner
n.a flat, straight tool used for measuring length or drawing straight lines.
n.a rigid, flat instrument with marked graduations used for measuring linear distance or as a straightedge.
Simple“Use a ruler to make sure the line is exactly ten centimetres long.”
In context“The student used a wooden ruler to measure the dimensions of the specimen before sketching it in her notebook.”
Synonymsstraightedgerule - 02 A2 Elementary
n.a person who has the power to control a country or group, like a king or queen.
n.a person who exercises supreme authority or dominion over a territory or people.
Simple“The ancient ruler built many beautiful temples during his long reign.”
In context“Historians often debate whether the ruler was a benevolent visionary or a tyrant who prioritised expansion over the welfare of his subjects.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
v.to hit someone with a ruler as a punishment.
v.to strike a person, typically a student, with a ruler as a form of corporal punishment.
Simple“In the old days, teachers might ruler a student for being late.”
In context“The memoir describes a harsh Victorian classroom where the master would ruler any child who failed to recite their verses perfectly.”
UsageThis verb is transitive and takes a direct object, usually a person.
Teacher's tipThis sense is archaic and refers to historical school discipline; it is not used in modern educational contexts.
From Middle English reuler; equivalent to rule + -er.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.