Definition of "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

noun: something regarded as a normative example

"Violence is the rule not the exception."

noun: a principle or condition that customarily governs behavior

"It was his rule to take a walk before breakfast."

noun: (mathematics) a standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems

"He determined the upper bound with Descartes' rule of signs."

noun: a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system

"The right-hand rule for inductive fields."

noun: a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

noun: any one of a systematic body of regulations defining the way of life of members of a religious order

"The rule of St. Dominic."

noun: prescribed guide for conduct or action

noun: directions that define the way a game or sport is to be conducted

"He knew the rules of chess."

noun: (linguistics) a rule describing (or prescribing) a linguistic practice

noun: dominance or power through legal authority

"The rule of Caesar."

noun: the duration of a monarch's or government's power

"During the rule of Elizabeth."

verb: keep in check

"Rule one's temper."

verb: decide with authority

verb: decide on and make a declaration about

verb: mark or draw with a ruler

"Rule the margins."

verb: exercise authority over; as of nations

verb: be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance

verb: have an affinity with; of signs of the zodiac