guideline

noun

guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn How to pronounce guideline (audio)
: a line by which one is guided: such as
a
: a cord or rope to aid a passer over a difficult point or to permit retracing a course
b
: an indication or outline of policy or conduct

Examples of guideline in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Learn more about Gannett’s AI guidelines and policy here. Kara McGinley, USA Today, 14 Aug. 2025 Only 34% of companies have established guidelines for generative AI, and just 6% have banned its use entirely. Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025 The department’s guidelines say the purpose of after action reviews is to understand why something happened and to learn from the experience. Mike Hendricks, Kansas City Star, 14 Aug. 2025 The page includes health and safety guidelines, volunteer opportunities and resources for flood victims. Sophia Tiedge, jsonline.com, 14 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for guideline

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of guideline was in 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Guideline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guideline. Accessed 25 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

guideline

noun
guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn How to pronounce guideline (audio)
1
: a line by which one is guided
2
: an outline of standards for future policy or action

More from Merriam-Webster on guideline

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