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

The lawsuit further alleges that the university did not allow a substantive review of his tenure appeal and violated Northwestern’s appeal guidelines. — Kate Perez, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

These reusable workflows embed detailed instructions, brand guidelines, and resources, acting as standard operating procedures for the AI. — Rachel Wells, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

Keep these guidelines in mind when planting along your driveway or fence as well. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 19 July 2026

Andrew Tate has amassed over 10 million followers on X but has been banned from platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Instagram for violating hate speech guidelines. — Alanna Durkin Richer, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 July 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