Guide

Pronunciation

• IPA: /É¡aɪd/
• Rhymes: -aɪd

Origin

Originated 1325–75 from the Middle English verb giden or noun gide, from the Old French verb guider or noun guide, from Old Provencal guida, from guidar, from , from Frankish (*witan, "to show the way"). Akin to Old English witan ("to know"); see Proto-Indo-European *weyd-.

Full definition of guide

Noun

1. Someone who guides, especially someone hired to show people around a place or an institution and offer information and explanation.The guide led us around the museum and explained the exhibits.
• Bible, Psalms xlviii. 14He will be our guide, even unto death.
2. A document or book that offers information or instruction; guidebook.
3. A sign that guides people; guidepost.
4. Any marking or object that catches the eye to provide quick reference.
5. A device that guides part of a machine, or guides motion or action.
1. A blade or channel for directing the flow of water to the buckets in a water wheel.
2. A grooved director for a probe or knife in surgery.
3. (printing, dated) A strip or device to direct the compositor's eye to the line of copy being set.
6. (occult) A spirit believed to speak through a medium.
7. (military) A member of a group marching in formation who sets the pattern of movement or alignment for the rest.

Derived terms

Verb

1. to serve as a guide for someone or something; to lead or direct in a way; to conduct in a course or path.
• ShakespeareGuide me to your sovereign's court.
2. to steer or navigate, especially a ship or as a pilot.
3. to exert control or influence over someone or something.
• Bible, Psalms cxii. 5He will guide his affairs with discretion.
4. to supervise the education or training of someone.
5. (intransitive) to act as a guide.