A Ruler Measures and a Ruler Governs
A ruler is a straight measuring strip and also a person who governs. Both come from the idea of a straight line.
A ruler is a straight strip for measuring and drawing lines, and also a person who governs. Both come from Latin *regula*, a straight stick, from *regere*, to guide or keep straight. A rule is a straight line laid down, whether on paper or in law, and the person who lays it down is the ruler. Governing and measuring share the same image of keeping things straight. The same root gives *regular*, *regime*, *correct* and *regiment*.
- A measuring strip. *A wooden ruler.*
- One who governs. *A just ruler.*
- Rule — a straight line or law. *A rule.*
- Regular — following a rule. *Regular.*
- Latin — *regula*, a straight stick. *The source.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | ruler | A ruler. |
| Plural | rulers | Rulers. |
| Base | rule | A rule. |
| Verb | rule | Rule the country. |
| Latin | regula | A straight stick. |
- Draw the line with a ruler.Tool.
- The country's ruler signed the treaty.Government.
- Regula means a straight stick.Etymology.
The regere family
- Ruler — one who keeps things straight
- Regular — conforming to a rule
- Regime — a system of rule
- Correct — to make straight together
- Regiment — a governed unit of soldiers
From *rule*, Old French *reule*, from Latin *regula*, a straight stick or bar, from *regere*, to guide.
Why does ruler mean both a tool and a monarch?
Both come from Latin regula, a straight stick. One keeps lines straight on paper, the other keeps a state in order.
Is regular related?
Yes. It means conforming to a rule, from the same regula.