guideline: Meaning and Definition of

guide•line

1. any guide or indication of a future course of action: guidelines on the government's future policy.
2. a lightly marked line used as a guide, as in composing a drawing, a typed page, or a line of lettering.
3. a rope or cord that serves to guide one's steps, esp. over rocky terrain, through underground passages, etc.
4. a rope or wire used in guiding the movement of stage scenery or curtains being raised or lowered.