First Known Use: 1625
Dictionary
ruse
noun \ˈrüs, ˈrüz\
: a trick or act that is used to fool someone
Full Definition of RUSE
: a wily subterfuge
See ruse defined for English-language learners
See ruse defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of RUSE
French, from Old French, roundabout path taken by fleeing game, trickery, from reuser
Synonym Discussion of RUSE
trick, ruse, stratagem, maneuver, artifice, wile, feint mean an indirect means to gain an end. trick may imply deception, roguishness, illusion, and either an evil or harmless end <the tricks of the trade>. ruse stresses an attempt to mislead by a false impression <the ruses of smugglers>. stratagem implies a ruse used to entrap, outwit, circumvent, or surprise an opponent or enemy <the stratagem-filled game>. maneuver suggests adroit and skillful avoidance of difficulty <last-minute maneuvers to avert bankruptcy>. artifice implies ingenious contrivance or invention <the clever artifices of the stage>. wile suggests an attempt to entrap or deceive with false allurements <used all of his wiles to ingratiate himself>. feint implies a diversion or distraction of attention away from one's real intent <a feint toward the enemy's left flank>.
Ruse
geographical name Ru·se \ˈrü-(ˌ)sā\
Definition of RUSE
city NE Bulgaria on the Danube S of Bucharest pop 158,000
Variants of RUSE
Ru·se or Turkish Rus·chuk \ru̇s-ˈchük\
RUSE Defined for Kids
ruse
noun \ˈrüs, ˈrüz\
Definition of RUSE for Kids
Learn More About RUSE
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up ruse? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).