ruling

(noun) the reason for a court's judgment (as opposed to the decision itself). Synonyms: opinion.

(verb) exercise authority over; as of nations. Synonyms: govern, rule. Example: "Who is governing the country now?."

(verb) decide with authority. Synonyms: rule, decree. Example: "The king decreed that all firstborn males should be killed."

(verb) be larger in number, quantity, power, status or importance. Synonyms: predominate, dominate, rule, reign, prevail. Examples: "Money reigns supreme here." "Hispanics predominate in this neighborhood."

(verb) decide on and make a declaration about. Synonyms: rule, find. Example: "Find someone guilty."

(verb) have an affinity with; of signs of the zodiac. Synonyms: rule.

(verb) mark or draw with a ruler. Synonyms: rule. Example: "Rule the margins."

(verb) keep in check. Synonyms: rule, harness, rein. Example: "Rule one's temper."

(adj) exercising power or authority. Synonyms: regnant, reigning.