rule out

verb

ruled out; ruling out; rules out

transitive verb

1
2
: to make impossible : prevent
heavy rain ruled out the picnic

Examples of rule out in a Sentence

another loss would rule them out of the tournament
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Widmer's family has called for DNA testing of Sarah's remains to rule out a disorder. Victoria Moorwood, The Enquirer, 31 July 2025 Acreage needs of large-scale data centers would likely rule out office zones, which are typically smaller and near residential neighborhoods. Matthew Glowicki, The Courier-Journal, 30 July 2025 Until recently, it was widely assumed that the dollar’s status as the world’s reserve currency, and investors’ desire to hold U.S. assets, would rule out the capital flight and market crashes that have befallen Turkey and many other countries under similar strains. John Cassidy, New Yorker, 28 July 2025 Expert examination can rule out many conspiracy theories and provide strong evidence for technical explanations, but absolute certainty in digital forensics often requires access to complete evidence chains that may not always be available. Lars Daniel, Forbes.com, 27 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for rule out

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rule out was circa 1658

Cite this Entry

“Rule out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20out. Accessed 3 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

rule out

verb
: to eliminate the possibility of

More from Merriam-Webster on rule out

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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