rule

Noun

• measuring stick consisting of a strip of wood or metal or plastic with a straight edge that is used for drawing straight lines and measuring lengths

• (mathematics) a standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems
  • he determined the upper bound with Descartes' rule of signs
    
  • he gave us a general formula for attacking polynomials
    

• a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
  • the principle of the conservation of mass
    
  • the principle of jet propulsion
    
  • the right-hand rule for inductive fields
    

• any one of a systematic body of regulations defining the way of life of members of a religious order
  • the rule of St. Dominic
    

• directions that define the way a game or sport is to be conducted
  • he knew the rules of chess
    

• dominance or power through legal authority
  • France held undisputed dominion over vast areas of Africa
    
  • the rule of Caesar
    

• the duration of a monarch's or government's power
  • during the rule of Elizabeth
    

• a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
  • their principles of composition characterized all their works
    

• (linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice

• prescribed guide for conduct or action

• something regarded as a normative example
  • the convention of not naming the main character
    
  • violence is the rule not the exception
    
  • his formula for impressing visitors
    

• a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior
  • it was his rule to take a walk before breakfast
    
  • short haircuts were the regulation
    

Verb

• keep in check
  • rule one's temper
    

• mark or draw with a ruler
  • rule the margins
    

• have an affinity with; of signs of the zodiac

• decide on and make a declaration about
  • find someone guilty
    

• be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance
  • Money reigns supreme here
    
  • Hispanics predominate in this neighborhood
    

• decide with authority
  • The King decreed that all firstborn males should be killed
    

• exercise authority over; as of nations
  • Who is governing the country now?
    

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  ruler , formula , principle , dominion , linguistic rule , prescript , convention , normal , pattern , regulation , harness , rein , find , predominate , dominate , reign , prevail , decree , govern