noun
straight scale; linear scale; ruler
Refers to a straight measuring tool with marked graduations, used in engineering, machining, or drafting. Not a common everyday word; 定規 (じょうぎ) is the usual word for a ruler.
直尺を使って部品の長さを測る。
Measure the length of the part using a straight scale.
この直尺はミリ単位で目盛りが刻まれている。
This straight scale is graduated in millimeters.
Compound of 直 (straight) and 尺 (measure, scale). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word is formed from kanji components that directly describe its function.