rule of the road

noun phrase

: a customary practice (such as driving always on a particular side of the road or yielding the right of way) developed in the interest of safety and often subsequently reinforced by law
especially : any of the rules making up a code governing ships in matters relating to mutual safety

Examples of rule of the road in a Sentence

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.
London is home to some of the most influential financial institutions focused on sustainable finance and the NGO standard-setters laying out rules of the road. Justin Worland, Time, 26 June 2026 Wash says the city's mission is to hold violators accountable, and also to educate drivers and pedestrians on the rules of the road. Alysia Burgio, CBS News, 25 June 2026 The rules of the road are continuously adapting and what was formerly acceptable can now have financial and potentially life changing consequences for you and your family. Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026 The law will allow law enforcement agencies to issue tickets to autonomous vehicle companies for violations of the rules of the road. Noe Padilla, USA Today, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rule of the road

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rule of the road was in 1798

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Cite this Entry

“Rule of the road.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20the%20road. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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