guideline

noun

guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn How to pronounce guideline (audio)
Synonyms of guidelinenext
: 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
new guidelines on nutrition

Examples of guideline in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The man said the issue is mostly in elementary schools, with younger students having different disciplinary guidelines. Julia Avant, CBS News, 24 Mar. 2026 Using this insight, the researchers developed design guidelines to reduce these defects. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 Mar. 2026 He is credited with helping to establish safety guidelines and governing bodies to make cheerleading less dangerous. Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 23 Mar. 2026 Please read the guidelines before participating. Elissa Jorgensen, Dallas Morning News, 23 Mar. 2026 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 26 Mar. 2026.

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

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