This is the 2544th most frequent Russian word.
руль
Steering wheel.
In this sentence, 'руль' refers to the handlebars of a bicycle, which one holds and steers.
Он крепко держал руль велосипеда.
He held the bicycle's handlebar tightly.
Here, 'руль' means the steering wheel of a car, used for steering.
Руль машины нужно повернуть влево.
The car's steering wheel needs to be turned to the left.
In this context, 'руль' signifies the helm of a ship, referring to the mechanism or system used for steering the ship.