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 data will offer a baseline for home price trends this year before mortgage rates shot to monthslong highs and insight into the foundation supporting prices as mortgage rates climb.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

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

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

The strategists also forecast the 10-year German Bund yield ending 2026 at 2.80% and 2027 at 2.70% under their baseline ECB rate-path scenario.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

Jenkins got revenge by hitting a midrange baseline jumper over Reaves to put the Pistons back in front with 25 seconds left.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

To Dr. Greenfield, the true believer, it is a crucial piece of baseline evidence.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel