[guide] n [ME, fr. MF, fr. OProv guida, of Gmc origin; akin to OE witan to look after, witan to know--more at wit] (14c) 1 a: one that leads or directs another's way b: a person who exhibits and explains points of interest c: something that provides a person with guiding information d: signpost 1 e: a person who directs another's conduct or course of life
2. a: a device for steadying or directing the motion of something b: a ring or loop for holding the line of a fishing rod in position c: a sheet or a card with projecting tab for labeling inserted in a card index to facilitate reference
3: a member of a unit on whom the movements or alignments of a military command are regulated--used esp. in commands "~ right"
[2]guide vb guid.ed ; guid.ing vt (14c) 1: to act as a guide to: direct in a way or course
2. a: to direct, supervise, or influence usu. to a particular end b: to superintend the training or instruction of ~ vi: to act or work as a guide -- guid.er n syn guide, lead, steer, pilot, engineer mean to direct in a course or show the way to be followed. guide implies intimate knowledge of the way and of all its difficulties and dangers "guided the scouts through the cave". lead implies showing the way and often keeping those that follow under control and in order "led his team to victory". steer implies an ability to keep to a chosen course and stresses the capacity of maneuvering correctly "steered the ship through a narrow channel". pilot suggests guidance over a dangerous, intricate, or complicated course "piloted the bill through the Senate". engineer implies guidance by one who finds ways to avoid or overcome difficulties in achieving an end or carrying out a plan "engineered his son's election to the governorship".