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n. 1. a. A vertically hinged plate of metal, fiberglass, or wood mounted at the stern of a ship or boat for directing its course. b. A similar structure at the tail of an aircraft, used for effecting horizontal changes in course. 2. A controlling agent or influence over direction; a guide. [Middle English ruder, from Old English rōther, steering oar; see erə- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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