ruling

American  

[roo-ling] / ˈru lɪŋ /

noun

1. an authoritative decision, as one by a judge on a debated point of law.

2. the act of drawing straight lines with a ruler.

3. ruled lines.

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adjective

1. governing or dominating.

   the ruling party.

2. controlling; predominating.

   the ruling factor in recovery from an illness.

3. widespread; prevalent.

   ruling prices; ruling values.

ruling British  

/ ˈruːlɪŋ /

noun

1. a decision of someone in authority, such as a judge

2. one or more parallel ruled lines

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adjective

1. controlling or exercising authority

   the ruling classes

2. prevalent or predominant

Other Word Forms

• nonruling noun

Etymology

Origin of ruling

1175–1225; Middle English (gerund); rule, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

A definitive ruling by the nation’s highest court is expected by early summer.

From Los Angeles Times

Hans Johnson, chair of the Los Angeles County Civilian Oversight Commission, called the ruling a “big win” for law enforcement transparency.

From Los Angeles Times

“I don’t even think a passport issued before this ruling would be proof of citizenship anymore, because the definition of citizenship would have shifted,” Lang said.

From Salon

That decision has now been overturned by Tuesday's ruling.

From BBC

Investors are worried that recent adverse legal rulings could open the door for widespread further penalties.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• decision
• directive
• edict
• finding
• law
• order
• resolution
• rule
• verdict