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.
Last December, the National Trust sued the current administration for allegedly violating federal construction guidelines in its attempt to build a ballroom in the White House’s former East Wing. News Desk, Artforum, 22 June 2026 Without guidelines and standards, science risks entering a world where every image can be questioned and no image carries inherent credibility. Nan Li, The Conversation, 22 June 2026 Many of the safety guidelines are often ignored, however, and incidents persist along the Boise River. Idaho Statesman, 22 June 2026 The law requires companies to get parental permission for social media and gaming apps and to provide their privacy guidelines, so families know what content would be censored or moderated on their child's profile. CBS News, 20 June 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 Jun. 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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