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.
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. Kent Thiry, Denver Post, 27 Apr. 2026 Where the guidelines set the standard, the Accelerator delivers the solution. Alex Ritman, Variety, 27 Apr. 2026 Nonopioid therapies are preferred and often as effective as opioids for chronic pain, according to the Centers for Disease Control’s opioid prescribing guidelines. Amber Gaudet, Charlotte Observer, 27 Apr. 2026 But four years later, the California Department of Public Health is still implementing guidelines from the auditor’s report, leading the Legislature last year to extend the ban on new hospice programs into 2027. Andrew Graham april 26, Sacbee.com, 26 Apr. 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 28 Apr. 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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