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

In determining whether to reimburse treatment for such ailments, insurers turn to Food and Drug Administration labels and expert guidelines. — Arthur Allen, CBS News, 21 Sep. 2026

And both are too light to lift a child of Gus’ age – roughly 13 kilograms, according to pediatric guidelines. — Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 20 Sep. 2026

Carter said at least 60 of the 62 members of the CBC would vote for a bill to regulate artificial intelligence, creating guardrails and placing guidelines on human safety. — Karen James Sloan,frank Holland, CNBC, 20 Sep. 2026

But the lack of consistent guidelines has led to unsustainable bidding wars between schools offering seven-figure salaries. — The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Sep. 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