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Definition of guideline

guideline

/ˈɡaɪd.laɪn/
guide · line
Plural:guidelines
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guideline Lexical Profile

guideline Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A general rule, principle, or piece of advice setting out how something should be done or what action should be taken.

Example

"The health department issued a new set of strict guidelines for restaurant sanitization."

2

A literal line, cord, or rope by which a person is guided, especially in surveying, diving, or traversing dangerous paths.

Example

"The rescue divers relied on a brightly colored guideline to find their way out of the underwater cave."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for guideline

• Rhymes for guideline

• Nearby Words

guide
guidebook
guideless
guideline
guidepost
guideway
guideword

Word Origin & Etymology

Originally formed in the late 18th century as a literal term for a rope or cord used to guide someone over difficult terrain. By the mid-20th century, it took on its modern abstract meaning of a rule or principle setting out a course of action.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Guideline. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/guideline
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