Dictionary of Computer and Internet Terms: ruler
ruler
a strip at the top (and sometimes the side) of the on-screen work area, marked in units of measurement. Like its physical counterparts, an on-screen ruler is used to help you measure things. Rulers can be found in word processors, drawing programs, and page layout programs.You have the option to display the ruler, or to hide it and give yourself some more working room. You can also have the ruler show units of measurement other than inches ( picas might be more useful for many applications). A ruler is especially useful when using a high degree of zoom because it helps you keep your orientation.
