An authoritative decision or judgment, especially one made by a court, official, or governing body.
From Old French 'riuler', from Latin 'regula' (straight stick, rule). Originally referred to using a ruler to draw straight lines, then extended to establishing straight/correct standards and making authoritative decisions.
The connection between rulers (measuring tools) and rulers (leaders) isn't coincidental - both establish standards and straight lines, whether in measurement or governance. Supreme Court rulings literally 'draw the line' on legal interpretation.
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