Main Entry: ¹pol·i·cy

Pronunciation: \ˈpä-lə-sē\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural pol·i·cies

Usage: often attributive

Etymology: Middle English policie government, policy, from Middle French police, policie — more at police

Date: 15th century

1 a : prudence or wisdom in the management of affairs b : management or procedure based primarily on material interest
2 a : a definite course or method of action selected from among alternatives and in light of given conditions to guide and determine present and future decisions b : a high-level overall plan embracing the general goals and acceptable procedures especially of a governmental body