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
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.
Wash the Shirt in the Washing Machine Following the guidelines on the care label, select the water temperature and cycle. Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 31 Dec. 2025 To send a letter to the editor about this article, submit online or check out our guidelines for how to submit by email or mail. Krista Kafer, Denver Post, 31 Dec. 2025 It is also alleged that the school's parking lot practices violate state regulations and guidelines, which specifically detail student safety in relation to parent drop off, parking, and bus loading areas. Julie Sharp, CBS News, 31 Dec. 2025 The American Cancer Society recently released guidelines recommending self-testing for HPV, allowing people to collect a sample from their cervix themselves instead of having a doctor or nurse collect it. Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Dec. 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 1 Jan. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on guideline

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