First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1rung
2rung
noun \ˈrəŋ\
: a piece of wood or metal that is placed between the legs of a chair for support
: one of the pieces of wood or metal that is used as a step on a ladder
: a position or level within a group, organization, etc., that is higher or lower than others
Full Definition of RUNG
1
a : a rounded crosspiece between the legs of a chair b : one of the crosspieces of a ladder
2
Scottish : a heavy staff or cudgel
3
: a spoke of a wheel
4
: a level in a hierarchy <rise a few rungs on the social scale — H. W. Van Loon>
See rung defined for English-language learners
Origin of RUNG
Middle English, from Old English hrung crossbar; akin to Gothic hrunga staff and perhaps to Old English hring ring — more at ring
Related to RUNG
RUNG Defined for Kids
1rung
\ˈrəŋ\
Definition of RUNG for Kids
past participle of 3ring
2rung
noun
Definition of RUNG for Kids
1
: a rounded part placed as a crosspiece between the legs of a chair
2
: one of the crosspieces of a ladder
Medical Dictionary
rung
Learn More About RUNG
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up rung? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).