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 tried this and coined the technique as activation capping. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026 In refusing damage-prone manicure techniques like gel, dip, powder, and acrylics, my nails have retained their strength and elasticity for the better part of 30 years, often drawing compliments from my manicurists. Madison Yauger, PEOPLE, 22 Jan. 2026 Additional legal frameworks include the 1976 ENMOD Convention prohibiting environmental modification techniques for military purposes and Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions that prohibits methods of warfare intended or expected to cause widespread, long-term and severe environmental damage. Josiane Yazbeck, The Conversation, 22 Jan. 2026 While recognized by standards bodies, those techniques often slow AI systems and limit real-world deployment. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 22 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 23 Jan. 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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