base·line 
/ˈbeɪsˌlaɪn/ noun
plural base·lines /ˈbeɪsˌlaɪn/ noun [count] 1 technical : information that is used as a starting point by which to compare other information
▪ The experiment is meant only to provide a baseline for other studies. — often used before another noun ▪ baseline data 2 : a line at either end of the playing area in games like basketball and tennis 3 baseball a : either one of the lines that lead from home plate to first base and third base
b : base path
▪ The experiment is meant only to provide a baseline for other studies. — often used before another noun ▪ baseline data
b : base path
