ground rule

noun

Definition of ground rulenext
as in rule
a statement spelling out the proper procedure or conduct for an activity before the debate begins, let's lay out some ground rules

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ground rule Bills were introduced in Springfield over the spring to impose ground rules on data center development. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026 The 62-year-old actor and director, who was greeted by a group of autograph seekers over the weekend, has drawn criticism for laying out ground rules before proceeding with the signing. — Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 26 May 2026 Troy, a San Jose native, scored his first MLB run later in the second inning on Ketel Marte’s ground rule double off Rockies starter Jose Quintana. — Curtis Pashelka, Mercury News, 25 May 2026 The official, who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity on ground rules set by the White House, said Trump also plans to meet on the sideline of the summit with the leaders of Egypt, Qatar and United Arab Emirates to discuss efforts to wind down the Iran war. — Munir Ahmed, Fortune, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ground rule
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ground rule
  1. rule
  2. regulation
  3. code
  4. law
Noun
  • In the southern Russian city of Krasnodar, which borders Crimea, another video shows a man filling up a container in the back of his car while two women berate him for breaking the rules.
    — Clare Sebastian, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
  • The Marlins tacked on two runs in the second on Lopez’s ground-rule double and Hicks’ sacrifice fly.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 6 July 2026
Definition of rule
Noun
  • Many structures are built with substandard materials, and safety regulations are frequently ignored to reduce costs.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 1 July 2026
  • Fears have mounted that increasingly powerful AI models could be a boon for cybercriminals hunting for software vulnerabilities, but many administration allies are wary of government regulation of the industry.
    — Joe Walsh, CBS News, 1 July 2026
Definition of regulation
Noun
  • The family pursued legal action after finding that their pool was not built according to code, and put the settlement money toward founding a water safety nonprofit, The Zac Foundation.
    — Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • The Metropolitan Development Commission voted 5-3 to approve zoning regulations, which will then be passed on to the City-County Council to debate and vote on, before going into the city's zoning code.
    — Alysa Guffey, IndyStar, 2 July 2026
Definition of code
Noun
  • Beginning Monday, the focus shifts to whether there is enough evidence for a trial and if the death penalty is warranted, said Paul Cassell, a University of Utah law professor and former federal judge.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 5 July 2026
  • And even though Georgia law does not require this, all cyclists and scooterists should wear helmets.
    — Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 5 July 2026
Definition of law

Browse Nearby Words

ground plans
ground rule
ground rules
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Cite this Entry

“Ground rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ground%20rule. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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