baseline

[beys-lahyn] / ˈbeɪsˌlaɪn /

NOUN

basic standard or level

Synonyms

STRONGEST

control criterion guideline measure standard

STRONG

diagnostic touchstone

WEAK

basis example exemplar paradigm precedent threshold

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

January’s home price data offers a baseline before recent mortgage rate hikes, reflecting a period of optimism and lower rates.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

The country's Central Bank has assessed a baseline scenario in which the war ends relatively soon and supply chains are restored.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

The fossils "provide a critical, missing baseline for New Zealand's natural history."

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

It was Dodger Stadium on Wednesday, when the grass outside the baseline and the bright red sign high above center field read “UNIQLO FIELD.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Minute changes in baseline assumptions produce wildly different results.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann