guide word

Definition of guide wordnext
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
  • The soundtrack has generated more than 15 billion streams worldwide, while the film became the only title to spend 52 consecutive weeks in Netflix’s Global Top 10.
    Martin Goillandeau, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026
  • In the final of the 2014 edition, Germany lifted its fourth title after a 1-0 extra-time win against Lionel Messi's Argentina.
    ABC News, ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Pattinson stars and produces through his Icki Eneo Arlo banner, with a supporting cast that includes Merritt Wever, Skyler Gisondo, Phoebe Bridgers and Bokeem Woodbine.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Ishika Samant / Getty Images While the grounds pass is the banner example of surging prices, in sports, the seats closest to the action have the highest demand because there are so few of them.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Guide word.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/guide%20word. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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