technique

noun

tech·​nique tek-ˈnēk How to pronounce technique (audio)
Synonyms of techniquenext
1
: the manner in which technical details are treated (as by a writer) or basic physical movements are used (as by a dancer)
also : ability to treat such details or use such movements
good piano technique
2
a
: a body of technical methods (as in a craft or in scientific research)
b
: a method of accomplishing a desired aim

Examples of technique in a Sentence

We learned some techniques for relieving stress. I used a special technique to make the bread. The players need to practice in order to improve their technique. a dancer with excellent technique The ice-skaters will be judged on technique and creativity.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The researchers examined genetic markers linked to how the body processes sugar, then used a technique called Mendelian randomisation to compare disease rates in people who were genetically predisposed to higher blood glucose. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026 To highlight his creative process, instead of a look book, Mabire-Larguier showcased the toile of his design on a dummy at the entrance to the studio, with pattern-marks and pins on show, all the better to signify the technique involved in its elaboration. Alex Wynne, Footwear News, 29 Jan. 2026 Bart Layton made his feature debut in 2018 with American Animals, a great hybrid true-crime story that used doc techniques to tell the story of a supposedly victimless art heist that went terribly wrong. Damon Wise, Deadline, 29 Jan. 2026 To better understand the jet of this supermassive black hole, astronomers turned to the EHT's observations of M87* taken in 2021 using a technique called Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI). Robert Lea, Space.com, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for technique

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, "technical nature, branch of knowledge, body of technical methods, way of doing something," feminine noun derivative of technique, adjective, "technical," borrowed from New Latin technicus "of the arts or sciences" — more at technical entry 1

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of technique was in 1817

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Technique.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/technique. Accessed 1 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

technique

noun
tech·​nique tek-ˈnēk How to pronounce technique (audio)
1
a
: the manner in which details are treated (as by a writer) or basic physical movements are used (as by a dancer)
b
: ability to treat such details or use such movements
perfect piano technique
2
a
: technical methods especially in scientific research
laboratory technique
b
: a method of accomplishing a desired aim
a technique for handling complaints

Medical Definition

technique

noun
tech·​nique tek-ˈnēk How to pronounce technique (audio)
: a method or body of methods for accomplishing a desired end
new surgical techniques

More from Merriam-Webster on technique

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