guideline

noun

guide·​line ˈgīd-ˌlīn How to pronounce guideline (audio)
: 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

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.
Here’s a simple guideline: Full-sun lawns grow well with 3 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per growing season, while shade lawns need only 1.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per growing season. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2025 As JPMorgan’s advisors note, a common guideline is to keep any single stock to no more than 10-20% of your portfolio to avoid this kind of concentrated risk. Shahar Ziv, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025 Variable estrogen levels impact mood, says Dr. Maki, who co-authored the first guidelines to identify and treat depression in perimenopause. Cassie Shortsleeve, SELF, 11 Mar. 2025 To send a letter to the editor about this article, submit online or check out our guidelines for how to submit by email or mail. Allen Best, The Denver Post, 10 Mar. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Guideline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guideline. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

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

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