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

Please read the guidelines before participating. —Judith Martin, Dallas Morning News, 10 Mar. 2026

Power systems will also be designed to comply with global regulations issued by the International Maritime Organization and nuclear safety guidelines issued by the International Atomic Energy Agency. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 9 Mar. 2026

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 9 Mar. 2026

This is backed by scientific studies that offer helpful guidelines for determining the optimal amount of sleep for every stage of life. —Veronica Cristino, Vogue, 9 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for guideline

• acridine
• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• atropine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine

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