ground rule

noun

1. Usually ground rules. basic or governing principles of conduct in any situation or field of endeavor.

   the ground rules of press conferences.

2. Sports.,  any of certain rules specially adopted, as in baseball and softball, for dealing with situations or circumstances arising chiefly from the particular nature of the playing area or the interference of spectators.

ground rule

noun

1. a procedural rule or principle

Word History and Origins

Origin of ground rule¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Related Words

• code 
• guidance 
• instruction 
• protocol 
• rule