noun

1. in early books and manuscripts, a chapter heading, initial letter, specific sentence, etc. printed or written in red, decorative lettering, etc.
2. any heading, title, etc., as of a chapter or section
3. a direction, as in a prayer book, for conducting religious services
4. an explanatory comment, or gloss
5. the title or a heading of a law
6. an established custom or rule of procedure

Etymology: ME rubryke < MFr rubriche < L rubrica, red ocher, hence title (esp. of a law) written in red, rubric < ruber, red

adjective

1. inscribed in red
2. Archaic red or reddish