Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Rubric
Ru′bric
,Noun.
[OE.
rubriche
, OF. rubriche
, F. rubrique
( cf. it. rubrica
), fr. L. rubrica
red earth for coloring, red chalk, the title of a law (because written in red), fr. ruber
red. See red
.] That part of any work in the early manuscripts and typography which was colored red, to distinguish it from other portions.
Hence, specifically: (a)
A titlepage, or part of it, especially that giving the date and place of printing; also, the initial letters, etc., when printed in red.
(b)
(Law books)
The title of a statute; – so called as being anciently written in red letters.
Bell.
(c)
(Liturgies)
The directions and rules for the conduct of service, formerly written or printed in red; hence, also, an ecclesiastical or episcopal injunction; – usually in the plural.
All the clergy in England solemnly pledge themselves to observe the
rubrics
. Hook.
(d)
Hence, that which is established or settled, as by authority; a thing definitely settled or fixed.
Cowper.
Nay, as a duty, it had no place or rubric in human conceptions before Christianity.
De Quincey.
Ru′bric
,Verb.
T.
To adorn ith red; to redden; to rubricate.
[R.]
Johnson.
Webster 1828 Edition
Rubric
RU'BRIC
,Noun.
1.
In the canon law, a title or article in certain ancient law books; so called because written in red letters.2.
Directions printed in prayer books.The rubric and the rules relating to the liturgy are established by royal authority, as well as the liturgy itself.
RU'BRIC
,Verb.
T.