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.
Please read the guidelines before participating. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 17 Mar. 2026 Federal sentencing guidelines recommended prison time up to eight years since Carie Hallford didn't have a criminal history. Arkansas Online, 17 Mar. 2026 Federal sentencing guidelines recommend prison time up to eight years since Carie Hallford didn't have a criminal history. ABC News, 16 Mar. 2026 The next step is a review of acoziborole by the Democratic Republic of Congo Ministry of Health and by WHO to see if the agency should update its treatment guidelines, which would help other countries authorize the drug's use. Fran Kritz, NPR, 16 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

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Cite this Entry

“Guideline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guideline. Accessed 18 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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