method

noun

meth·​od ˈme-thəd How to pronounce method (audio)
1
: a procedure or process for attaining an object: such as
a(1)
: a systematic procedure, technique, or mode of inquiry employed by or proper to a particular discipline or art
(2)
: a systematic plan followed in presenting material for instruction
the lecture method
b(1)
: a way, technique, or process of or for doing something
often slow in their business methodsT. R. Ybarra
(2)
: a body of skills or techniques
in the art of the novel, heavily armed with methodJ. D. Scott
2
: a discipline that deals with the principles and techniques of scientific inquiry
3
a
: orderly arrangement, development, or classification : plan
The book is completely lacking in method.
b
: the habitual practice of orderliness and regularity
time enough to do everything if only you used methodAngela Thirkell
4
capitalized : a dramatic technique by which an actor seeks to gain complete identification with the inner personality of the character being portrayed
Choose the Right Synonym for method

method, mode, manner, way, fashion, system mean the means taken or procedure followed in achieving an end.

method implies an orderly logical arrangement usually in steps.

effective teaching methods

mode implies an order or course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference.

the preferred mode of transportation

manner is close to mode but may imply a procedure or method that is individual or distinctive.

an odd manner of conducting

way is very general and may be used for any of the preceding words.

has her own way of doing things

fashion may suggest a peculiar or characteristic way of doing something.

rushing about in his typical fashion

system suggests a fully developed or carefully formulated method often emphasizing rational orderliness.

a filing system

Examples of method in a Sentence

He claims to have developed a new method for growing tomatoes. Their teaching method tries to adapt lessons to each student. We need to adopt more modern methods of doing things.
Recent Examples on the Web With the help of his estranged but highly lethal brother Brax (Bernthal), Chris applies his brilliant mind and less-than-legal methods to piece together the unsolved puzzle. Ryan Gajewski, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Mar. 2024 In some states, the delegates are awarded proportionally, but others use a winner-takes-all system, while some states use a hybrid method. USA TODAY, 6 Mar. 2024 Light is listed as an inventor on a patent filed last year for a method to prevent benzoyl peroxide from breaking down into benzene in drug products. Anna Edney, Fortune Well, 6 Mar. 2024 Everyone would have to prove their age — through methods such as facial scans or showing an ID — to access adult sites, a provision that is also likely to be challenged in the courts. Lawrence Mower, Miami Herald, 6 Mar. 2024 Casinos should provide multiple contact methods, including 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support, ensuring assistance is always at hand for any queries or issues. Sponsored Content, The Mercury News, 5 Mar. 2024 The law affects everything from online advertising to messaging apps to app payment methods. David McCabe, New York Times, 4 Mar. 2024 The kidney transplant system already has a method to identify a majority of the high-risk organs. Joshua Mezrich, STAT, 2 Mar. 2024 There are 25 leap days in a century, so this method 25 x 0.0312 = 0.78 day, and the calendar syncs up a little bit better in the long run—but again, not exactly. Phil Plait, Scientific American, 23 Feb. 2024

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

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, prescribed treatment, from Latin methodus, from Greek methodos, from meta- + hodos way

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of method was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near method

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

method

noun
meth·​od ˈmeth-əd How to pronounce method (audio)
1
: a way, plan, or procedure for doing something
2
: orderly arrangement

Medical Definition

method

noun
meth·​od ˈmeth-əd How to pronounce method (audio)
: a procedure or process for attaining an object: as
a
: a systematic procedure, technique, or mode of inquiry employed by or proper to a particular discipline see scientific method
b
: a way, technique, or process of or for doing something

More from Merriam-Webster on method

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