procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər 
1
a
: a particular way of accomplishing something or of acting
b
: a step in a procedure
2
a
: a series of steps followed in a regular definite order
legal procedure
a surgical procedure
b
: a set of instructions for a computer that has a name by which it can be called into action
3
a
: a traditional or established way of doing things
Examples of procedure in a Sentence
Installing a car battery is a simple procedure.
What is the procedure for applying for a loan?
New employees are taught the proper safety procedures.
We must follow proper court procedure.
An identity check is standard police procedure.
the procedure for treating a burn
The procedure will take two hours.
Recent Examples on the Web
In the months ahead, Otis will need one final dental procedure to remove his remaining teeth.
—
Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
The parliamentarian’s office is responsible for determining if the package adheres to the Byrd Rule, named after the late Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia, who was considered one of the masters of Senate procedure.
—Lisa Mascaro, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2025
Josh Green underwent surgery to address instability in his left shoulder, a procedure that took place two months after the team wrapped up its 2024-25 season in April.
—Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 20 June 2025
The app includes features for travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program to complete certain airport procedures.
—Maykel Gonzalez, Miami Herald, 20 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for procedure
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show current usage.
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Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
The parliamentarian’s office is responsible for determining if the package adheres to the Byrd Rule, named after the late Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia, who was considered one of the masters of Senate procedure.
—Lisa Mascaro, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2025
Josh Green underwent surgery to address instability in his left shoulder, a procedure that took place two months after the team wrapped up its 2024-25 season in April.
—Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 20 June 2025
The app includes features for travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program to complete certain airport procedures.
—Maykel Gonzalez, Miami Herald, 20 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for procedure
Cite this Entry
“Procedure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/procedure. Accessed 24 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər
1
: a manner or method in which a business or action is carried on
2
a
: a series of steps followed in a regular definite order
the procedure for acquiring a passport
b
: a set of instructions for a computer that has a name by which it can be called into action
procedural
adjective
-ˈsēj-(ə-)rəl
Medical Definition
procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər
1
: a particular way of accomplishing something or of acting
2
: a step in a procedure
especially
: a series of steps followed in a regular definite order
a surgical procedure
a therapeutic procedure
Legal Definition
procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər
1
: one or more methods or steps for the enforcement or administration of rights, duties, justice, or laws
civil procedure
police procedure
compare procedural law, substantive law
2
: a particular and especially established way of doing something
a medical procedure
security procedures
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