scientific method

noun

: principles and procedures for the systematic pursuit of knowledge involving the recognition and formulation of a problem, the collection of data through observation and experiment, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses

Examples of scientific method in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over the past two years, attorneys for Meija have argued in post-conviction hearings that prosecutors introduced false and misleading testimony at trial and newly available scientific methods proved that Casiaono, who was submerged in a bathtub full of scalding water, died by accident. —Tony Plohetski, Austin American Statesman, 23 Jan. 2026

Conversely, the market rewards technical depth, scientific methods, and analytical precision—capabilities that workers consistently under-signal. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 22 Jan. 2026

This approach is important because conspiracy theories and disinformation often claim to falsify mainstream theories, or at least exploit a poor understanding of what certainty means in scientific methods. —Calum Lister Matheson, The Conversation, 14 Nov. 2025

Axiom’s Recipe for Success The thoughtfulness required for such high-quality pest control is reflected in Axiom's practical and scientific methods. —Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1672, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

scientific method

noun

: the rules and procedures for the pursuit of knowledge involving the finding and stating of a problem, the collection of facts through observation and experiment, and the making and testing of ideas that need to be proven right or wrong

Medical Definition

scientific method

noun

: principles and procedures for the systematic pursuit of knowledge involving the recognition and formulation of a problem, the collection of data through observation and experiment, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses