methodical

adjective

me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthä-di-kəl 

variants or less commonly methodic

mə-ˈthä-dik 

1

: arranged, characterized by, or performed with method or order

a methodical treatment of the subject

2

: habitually proceeding according to method : systematic

methodical in his daily routine

a methodical worker

methodically

mə-ˈthä-di-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

methodicalness

mə-ˈthä-di-kəl-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of methodical

• systematic
• organized
• systematized

Examples of methodical in a Sentence

Their methodical review of the evidence exposed some problems with the study's findings.

She's a slow and methodical worker, and her drawings reflect the extra care she takes.

Recent Examples on the Web

But Detroit has averaged 31 points per game, and the Jets may need more than a methodical ground game to keep pace. — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 24 Sep. 2026

Even so, executives have been methodical, not rushed, about crafting CNN’s new interactive format. — Brian Steinberg, Variety, 23 Sep. 2026

The Chiefs added a field goal, but the Colts responded with a methodical 13-play drive that featured a nice mix of Taylor, Warren and wide receiver Josh Downs, capped by Taylor’s second touchdown of the night to tie the score at 27. — Kansas City Star, 21 Sep. 2026

Georgia State quarterback Cameran Brown found his groove, leading a methodical 10-play, 75-yard drive that ended with a 12-yard touchdown pass to streaking Rodshaun Dorsey, cutting the UCF lead to 10-7. — Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 20 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for methodical

• periodical

Kids Definition

methodical

adjective

me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthäd-i-kəl 

1

: marked by or performed or arranged by method or order

a methodical search

2

: being in the habit of following a method : systematic

a methodical teacher

methodically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

methodicalness

-i-kəl-nəs 

noun