methodical

adjective

me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthä-di-kəl How to pronounce methodical (audio)
variants or less commonly methodic
1
: arranged, characterized by, or performed with method or order
a methodical treatment of the subject
2
: habitually proceeding according to method : systematic
methodical in his daily routine
a methodical worker
methodically adverb
methodicalness noun

Examples of methodical in a Sentence

Their methodical review of the evidence exposed some problems with the study's findings. She's a slow and methodical worker, and her drawings reflect the extra care she takes.
Recent Examples on the Web Perhaps none were more important than the four first downs the Chiefs converted on a methodical 16-play, 75-yard scoring drive that stretched just over four minutes in the second quarter and ended with a 2-yard touchdown plunge from running back Isiah Pacheco. Brian Wacker, Baltimore Sun, 28 Jan. 2024 The Taurus moon gives you the foresight to make methodical plans for long-term goals. USA TODAY, 18 Jan. 2024 Any thoughts of a comeback ended as the Lions put together a methodical drive that ended with a field goal from kicker Michael Badgley to finalize the score at 30-20. Dane Mizutani, Twin Cities, 7 Jan. 2024 Slow And Steady Wins The Race Kudla has followed a methodical path to growth by correcting mistakes and filling whitespace left by the big guys. Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024 This methodical repetition is akin to layering paint; each coat adds depth and richness, ensuring a flawless finish. Bryce Welker, Miami Herald, 21 Feb. 2024 There’s a fundamental disconnect between the slow, methodical nature of federal legalization and clinical trials, and the immediate need that veterans with PTSD and others suffering from serious mental health problems have for relief. Robert Johnson, Rolling Stone, 21 Feb. 2024 Kelce, 34, isn’t getting younger and, good as K.C. has remained, the passing game has been rendered largely methodical – and certainly not terrifying – since Hill's departure. USA TODAY, 12 Feb. 2024 Authorities will conduct a methodical search of the megachurch building – located in what used to be a sports arena – but do not believe there is any further danger to the public, the police chief said. Christina Maxouris, CNN, 12 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'methodical.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of methodical was in 1570

Dictionary Entries Near methodical

Cite this Entry

“Methodical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/methodical. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

methodical

adjective
me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthäd-i-kəl How to pronounce methodical (audio)
1
: marked by or performed or arranged by method or order
a methodical search
2
: being in the habit of following a method : systematic
a methodical teacher
methodically adverb
methodicalness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on methodical

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