ruse
Ruse (noun) means a clever trick or scheme meant to deceive someone. Example: “The whole invitation was just a ruse to get her out of the house.”
How to use ruse
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA trick or deceptive strategy used to mislead someone.
Don't confuse with "rouse" (to wake or stir up) — they sound similar but are unrelated in meaning.
Word forms
rused past tense, ruses plural, ruses singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The whole invitation was just a _____ to get her out of the house.
Etymology
From Old French ruse ("trick, cunning"), originally describing the evasive doubling-back of a hunted animal.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for ruse
See all rhymes for ruse →Frequently asked questions
What does “ruse” mean?
The word “ruse” means a clever trick or scheme meant to deceive someone. In plain terms, a trick or deceptive strategy used to mislead someone.
How do you pronounce “ruse”?
“Ruse” is pronounced rooz (/ɹuːz/ in IPA).
How do you use “ruse” in a sentence?
Here is “ruse” used in a sentence: “The whole invitation was just a ruse to get her out of the house.”
What part of speech is “ruse”?
“Ruse” is a noun.
Where does the word “ruse” come from?
The word “ruse” comes from Old French. From Old French ruse ("trick, cunning"), originally describing the evasive doubling-back of a hunted animal.
Is “ruse” a common word?
“Ruse” is an uncommon word in modern English.