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
  • A day after clinching the division title, the Dodgers did not take batting practice on the field but Muncy took ground balls at third base for quite awhile and seemed to be moving freely.
    Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 27 Sep. 2025
  • Deilus has found that many of her customers like to style vintage books on shelves or coffee tables and will keep her eyes peeled for interesting titles while thrifting.
    Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Spooky Pictures, the horror-centric banner led by Steven Schneider and Roy Lee, has entered into a multi-year, multi-picture partnership with Fandomodo Films, the boutique film and television development, production and financing company.
    Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Lowden originated the role of Luka at the 2024 Edinburgh International Festival under the National Theatre of Scotland banner.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 24 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 29 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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