golden rule

American  

[gohl-duhn rool] / ˈgoʊl dən ˈrul /

noun

1. a rule of ethical conduct, usually phrased “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” paraphrased from the Sermon on the Mount in the New Testament.

2. any philosophy, guiding principle, or ideal of behavior, as in a discipline, pursuit, or business.

   The protesters agreed that their golden rule would be “no violence.”

---

golden rule British  

noun

1. any of a number of rules of fair conduct, such as Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them (Matthew 7:12) or thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself (Leviticus 19:28)

2. any important principle

   a golden rule of sailing is to wear a life jacket

3. the principle advocated by Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown (in office 1997–2007) that a government should only borrow to invest

4. another name for rule of three

---

golden rule Idioms  

1. see under do unto others.

---

Etymology

Origin of golden rule

First recorded in 1550–60

Example Sentences

Papperger had broken a golden rule of dealing with the U.S. government: Never announce anything related to the sharing of technology without first getting approval.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 29, 2025

Historically, the game has followed a golden rule.

From Slate • Nov. 18, 2025

But Hill said that his golden rule at the first corner used to be to make no sudden movements, and many experienced racing drivers would agree.

From BBC • Oct. 18, 2025

The golden rule of gift-giving etiquette is to avoid religion, politics and sex,” said Richie Frieman, an expert on work manners.

From Salon • Dec. 9, 2024

But Victor went nevertheless; he had made for himself the golden rule, to act for another even when the result is not a matter of certain hope.

From Hesperus or Forty-Five Dog-Post-Days Vol. II A Biography by Jean Paul

Related Words

• assumption
• basis
• convention
• doctrine
• ethic
• foundation
• fundamental
• precept
• proposition
• regulation
• rule
• truth