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

Developers say everything from the building's octagonal towers to the Moorish-style entry pavilion has been carefully restored under federal guidelines. — Elle McLogan, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026

Most brand collaborations still move slowly because every partnership requires layers of coordination across legal teams, creative reviews, brand guidelines, media planning, approvals, localization and channel customization. — Tejas Manohar, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

That group, and the federal physical activity guidelines, both recommend at least 150 minutes each week of moderate intensity exercise, along with at least two days per week of muscle-strengthening activities. — Sadiya S. Khan, Time, 16 Aug. 2026

Still, Garnett noted in court that the government’s calculation of federal sentencing guidelines would call for a sentence of 24 to 30 years in prison. — ABC News, 15 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