noun

la regla

ruler · rule

Norma o principio que se sigue para hacer algo correctamente o mantener el orden.

Word: regla

Language: Spanish

Meaning:

Rule / Regulation:
In many contexts, regla refers to a rule, a regulation, or a principle that must be followed. For example, "Las reglas del juego" means "The rules of the game."
Ruler (Measuring Tool):
Regla can also mean a small, flat tool used to measure or draw straight lines, equivalent to a "ruler" in English.
Menstruation (Informal usage):
Colloquially, la regla is used to refer to a woman's menstrual period.

Parts / Root:

Regla has its origin in the Latin word regula, meaning "a straight stick, a ruler," from which the sense of "rule" or "measure" comes naturally.

Synonyms:

For rule:
- norma
- ley
- principio
For ruler (tool):
- regla (same word)
- (No close synonyms in common use for physical ruler)
For menstruation:
- período
- menstruación

Antonyms:

For rule:
- excepción (exception)
- libertad (freedom)
For ruler (tool):
There is no direct antonym because it's a physical object.
For menstruation:
No antonyms as it's a natural biological process.

Summary:

Regla is a versatile Spanish noun that predominantly means either a "rule" or a "ruler" (the measuring instrument). Additionally, it holds an informal meaning as "menstrual period" in everyday speech. Its meanings share the common theme of measurement or set standards.