guideline

noun

guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn How to pronounce guideline (audio)
Synonyms of guideline
: 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
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.
The guidelines from both the American Urological Association and the Endocrine Society say that testosterone therapy should only be recommended after identifying symptoms and consistently low levels based on two separate blood tests. — Will Stone, NPR, 10 Aug. 2026 The league’s current collective-bargaining agreement—the bylaws that set guidelines for payroll, player movement, and the on-field rules—is set to expire just before midnight on December 1st. — Diego Lasarte, New Yorker, 9 Aug. 2026 With strict preservation guidelines limiting more square footage (and to protect the historic facade), the team carefully expanded the kitchen and added a back porch, living room, and vaulted primary suite behind the original structure. — Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 9 Aug. 2026 Then there are guidelines in selecting over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, which are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. — Helen Dennis, Daily News, 9 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for guideline

Word History

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of guideline was in 1785

Rhymes for guideline

See All Rhymes for guideline

Browse Nearby Words

guideless
guideline
guide meridian
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Guideline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guideline. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

guideline

noun
guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn How to pronounce guideline (audio)
1
: a line by which one is guided
2
: an outline of standards for future policy or action

More from Merriam-Webster on guideline

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for guideline

Nglish: Translation of guideline for Spanish Speakers

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