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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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
Natasha Lennard, Esquire, 19 Sep. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for guide word
Noun
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The girls successfully defended their state title, overcoming a disqualification in their 4×100 relay.—
Gary Curreri,
Sun Sentinel,
7 May 2026
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Arsenal are firmly in title-chasing mode and goal difference could still prove crucial, despite Manchester City slipping up against Everton on Monday.—
Abdul Rehman,
New York Times,
7 May 2026
Noun
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Taking charge in February of 2018, the new CEO immensely ramped up the marketing budget for everything from Google Search banner ads to introductory offers for resort stays, all aimed at his target demographic.—
Shawn Tully,
Fortune,
6 May 2026
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The sign on the building’s exterior has been replaced by a banner from fellow local Mexican brand El Semáforo, which specializes in tacos and birria dishes.—
Michael Deeds,
Idaho Statesman,
6 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Guide word.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/guide%20word. Accessed 9 May. 2026.
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