guidepost

[ gahyd-pohst ]

noun

1. a post, usually mounted on the roadside or at the intersection of two or more roads, bearing a sign for the guidance of travelers.
2. anything serving as a guide; guideline.

guidepost

/ ˈɡaɪdˌpəʊst /

noun

1. a sign on a post by a road indicating directions
2. a principle or guideline

Word History and Origins

Origin of guidepost¹

First recorded in 1755–65; guide + post ¹

Example Sentences

Just as Moore’s Law helped chip designers predict and plan for the future, its generalizations provide guideposts that can help us ensure that the energy transition proceeds not just quickly but also smoothly and profitably.

From Los Angeles Times

For the moment, at least, Walz seems to have passed the do-no-harm test that has become the guidepost for choosing a running mate.

From Los Angeles Times

“Mike was like my spiritual guidepost,” Times columnist Bill Plaschke said.

From Los Angeles Times

And as I say, Alito made up the law, creating what he calls five guideposts that plaintiffs must satisfy to bring a successful claim under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.

From Salon

“The C.C.A. has a remarkable history of treating Supreme Court opinions as optional guideposts rather than the commands of a higher tribunal,” he said.

From New York Times

Related Words

• emblem
• logo
• notice
• placard
• proof
• type
• warning