guideline

noun

guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn 

: 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

Taken together, the filings catch the deal breaching both thresholds—the guidelines’ 1,800 ceiling in distribution and cable, and Philadelphia Bank’s 30% line in the markets where writers sell their work. — Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 3 Aug. 2026

Jay Lerner, the Park District’s executive director, said the 10- minute guideline is one the National Recreation and Parks Association recommends for urban areas like Waukegan. — Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026

Barry Noreen, Denver 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. — Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 2 Aug. 2026

Wring out the rags and dispose of the greasy water following local guidelines. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 2 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for guideline

• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine
• caroline
• centerline

Kids Definition

guideline

noun

guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn 

1

: a line by which one is guided

2

: an outline of standards for future policy or action