1. To make decisions; to reign over; to regulate: In the story, the good fairy ruled or governed the fairy land until her death.
2. To influence or to restrict someone's actions in a negative way: Ever since she was a child, a dread of being alone in the house ruled Sally's life and caused her parents much concern.
3. To state that something is true or must happen: The court ruled that the case was closed.

1. Regarding someone or something that reigns or controls: Tom read about the ruling party in Mexico and the voters's dissatisfaction of it.
2. Pertaining to a passion or emotion that strongly influences their undertakings: One ruling desire that Jeff has is to climb Mr. Everest, so he is preparing himself for it this year.

A decision or decree on a point of law made by an authorised individual: In court, the judge said that the ruling or verdict would be made the following week.

"Junta" refers to a group of military officers who rule a country after seizing power.