Definition of rule of thumb Rule of thumb

We found 4 definitions of rule of thumb from 3 different sources.

What does rule of thumb mean?

Noun
rule of thumb - a rule or principle that provides guidance to appropriate behavior
		guidepost, guideline

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rule of thumb (Noun)
A general guideline, rather than a strict rule; an approximate measure or means of reckoning based on experience or common knowledge.
rule of thumb (Noun)
Approximated, guesstimated.

rule of thumb
That rule suggested by a practical rather than a scientific knowledge. In common matters it means to estimate by guess, not by weight or measure.