definition of
rule out

[1] #1 rule out v. make impossible, especially beforehand. wn

[2] #2 rule out v. include or exclude by determining judicially or in agreement with rules. wn

[3] #3 rule out v. dismiss from consideration or a contest; "John was ruled out as a possible suspect because he had a strong alibi"; "This possibility can be eliminated from our consideration". wn