guide word

as in title
either one of the words that are at the top of a page in a dictionary or similar book and that show the first and last words on the page It is easiest to use the guide words to find the page for the word you are looking up.

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of guide word The Standing Rock movement’s guiding words, Mni Wiconi (water is life) meant more than clean water advocacy. Natasha Lennard, Esquire, 19 Sep. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for guide word
Noun
  • To avenge that loss, the Bearcats took a first step in the right direction toward capturing their 13th UIL title, which would extend their state record.
    Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Aug. 2025
  • Zara Kocak, Station Camp High The junior swimmer with two state titles to defend traveled to London, England, to compete at the AP International Meet, which brought together the top 52 swimmers in the United States to represent Team USA.
    Andy Humbles, The Tennessean, 30 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The project was also an effective banner for the Nongame Wildlife Fund, which has since raised more than $13 million.
    Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Looking to begin their title defense, the Eagles are already closing the door on last year’s success and won’t watch their newest banner be hung.
    Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Guide word.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/guide%20word. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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