An Etymological Dictionary of the German Language/Rute
Rute, f., ‘rod, switch, wand, rod (about 15 feet),’ from MidHG. ruote, OHG. ruota, f., ‘switch, rod, pole, rod (a measure)’; corresponding to OSax. rôda, t., ‘cross,’ Du. roede, ‘rod (also a measure),’ AS. rôd, f. ‘cross,’ E. rod, rood. Goth. *rôda, f., ‘pole, stake,’ is wanting. A pre-Teut. râdhá- is not found elsewhere; but is Lat. rădius, ‘staff,’ primit. allied?