standard operating procedure

noun

: established or prescribed methods to be followed routinely for the performance of designated operations or in designated situations

called also standing operating procedure

Examples of standard operating procedure in a Sentence

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 lab had no standard operating procedures, no clear chain of custody, and poor recordkeeping. Ben Taub, New Yorker, 26 Jan. 2026 Michael Gottlieb, a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney, said BSO’s standard operating procedure allows deputies to pursue vehicles in certain circumstances. Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 23 Jan. 2026 But the agency did recommend the department to establish a standard operating procedure outlining annual evaluations of apparatus operators and establish training on situational awareness. Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 18 Jan. 2026 Develop, adopt and document standard operating procedures and best practices around agent design and workflow. Bernard Marr, Forbes.com, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for standard operating procedure

Word History

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of standard operating procedure was in 1939

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Cite this Entry

“Standard operating procedure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/standard%20operating%20procedure. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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