ground rule

noun

1. Usually ground rules. basic or governing principles of conduct in any situation or field of endeavor:

   the ground rules of press conferences.

2. Sports. any of certain rules specially adopted, as in baseball and softball, for dealing with situations or circumstances arising chiefly from the particular nature of the playing area or the interference of spectators.

ground rule

noun

1. a procedural rule or principle

Word History and Origins

Origin of ground rule¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Example Sentences

“It’s a church and sanctuary, and we want it to be respected,” she told the audience in Spanish before laying out the ground rules.

From Los Angeles Times

As politicians work to create new laws to put guardrails on the fast-growing industry, some companies and talent are suing AI companies in hopes that courts can set ground rules.

From Los Angeles Times

He set strict ground rules for the defense’s planned expert testimony on campaign finance law.

From Seattle Times

California courts will uphold, overturn or set ground rules for culture war battles in school districts over parent notification, book restrictions and even public records.

From Los Angeles Times

For the past five years Los Angeles’ Hatch Escapes has been rethinking the escape room ground rules.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• code
• guidance
• instruction
• protocol
• rule