trial and error

noun

: a finding out of the best way to reach a desired result or a correct solution by trying out one or more ways or means and by noting and eliminating errors or causes of failure
also : the trying of one thing or another until something succeeds

Examples of trial and error in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web After years of trial and error, the company discovered that argeli, a hardier relative, was already growing wild in Nepal. Alex Travelli Uma Bista, New York Times, 15 Apr. 2024 After all, baseball is all about succeeding through trial and error. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 4 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for trial and error 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trial and error.' 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

1806, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trial and error was in 1806

Dictionary Entries Near trial and error

Cite this Entry

“Trial and error.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trial%20and%20error. Accessed 5 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

trial and error

noun
: the trying of one thing or another until something succeeds

More from Merriam-Webster on trial and error

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