# Rus

/ˈɹəs/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rus
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the countryside or a rural area, especially when described in a poetic or old-fashioned way. It is often used to contrast the quiet life of the country with the busy life of the city.

For teachers: the countryside or rural areas, particularly when viewed as a setting for pastoral life or in contrast to urban environments. Often used in literary or classical contexts to evoke a sense of rustic simplicity.

## Examples

- He dreamed of leaving the city for the peace of the rus.
- The poet spent his final years in the rus, finding inspiration in the rolling hills and quiet meadows far from the capital.
- In classical literature, the tension between urbs and rus serves as a recurring motif, highlighting the perceived moral purity of the country against the perceived corruption of the city.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in literary or academic contexts; often contrasted with 'urbs' (the city).

---

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.