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.
This means establishing clear governance structures, feedback mechanisms, and guidelines for prosocial AI deployment. Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 15 June 2025 The regulations give guidelines on what penalties are available; however, the stewards decide the infringements and sanctions. Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 14 June 2025 Under the policy, police must follow strict guidelines before declaring an assembly unlawful or using force. Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 13 June 2025 Depending on how the meeting is structured, and on the input from CDC scientists, these new committee members could substantially alter the guidelines on several immunizations—perhaps so much so that certain shots could stop being recommended to certain groups of Americans. Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 12 June 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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