a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior; it was his rule to take a walk before breakfast; short haircuts were the regulation
[ Syn: regulation ]
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
[ Syn: principle ]
(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
[ Syn: formula ]
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
[ Syn: ruler ]
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
[ Syn: convention , normal , pattern , formula ]
prescribed guide for conduct or action
[ Syn: prescript ]
(linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice
[ Syn: linguistic rule ]
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
[ Syn: principle ]
the duration of a monarch's or government's power; during the rule of Elizabeth'
dominance or power through legal authority; France held undisputed dominion over vast areas of Africa; the rule of Caesar
[ Syn: dominion ]
directions that define the way a game or sport is to be conducted; he knew the rules of chess'
any one of a systematic body of regulations defining the way of life of members of a religious order; the rule of St. Dominic'
rule (n.)
exercise authority over; as of nations; Who is governing the country now?
[ Syn: govern ]
decide with authority; The King decreed that all firstborn males should be killed
[ Syn: decree ]
be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance; Money reigns supreme here; Hispanics predominate in this neighborhood
[ Syn: predominate , dominate , reign , prevail ]
decide on and make a declaration about; find someone guilty
[ Syn: find ]
have an affinity with; of signs of the zodiac
mark or draw with a ruler; rule the margins'
keep in check; rule ones temper