rule out meaning and definition

RULE OUT verb

Definition of rule out (verb)

1. make impossible, especially beforehand
   • synonyms: close out, preclude
2. include or exclude by determining judicially or in agreement with rules
   • synonyms: rule in
3. dismiss from consideration or a contest
   • "John was ruled out as a possible suspect because he had a strong alibi"; "This possibility can be eliminated from our consideration"
   • synonyms: eliminate, reject, winnow out