Definition of modenext

mode

2 of 2

noun (2)

Synonym Chooser

How is the word mode different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of mode are fashion, manner, method, system, and way. While all these words mean "the means taken or procedure followed in achieving an end," mode implies an order or course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference.

the preferred mode of transportation

In what contexts can fashion take the place of mode?

Although the words fashion and mode have much in common, fashion may suggest a peculiar or characteristic way of doing something.

rushing about in his typical fashion

How are the words manner and mode related?

Manner is close to mode but may imply a procedure or method that is individual or distinctive.

an odd manner of conducting

Where would method be a reasonable alternative to mode?

The meanings of method and mode largely overlap; however, method implies an orderly logical arrangement usually in steps.

effective teaching methods

When would system be a good substitute for mode?

While in some cases nearly identical to mode, system suggests a fully developed or carefully formulated method often emphasizing rational orderliness.

a filing system

When might way be a better fit than mode?

In some situations, the words way and mode are roughly equivalent. However, way is very general and may be used for any of the preceding words.

has her own way of doing things

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of mode
Noun
While the show fluidly traverses the years before and after it, dropping in on Hal and John at key moments in their lives, the investigation that puts the two men in buddy-cop mode unfolds in 2016, two decades after the William Tell scene. Judy Berman, Time, 14 Aug. 2026 Chesky embodies founder mode when closely monitoring Airbnb employees’ progress on its AI initiatives, token usage, and overall output of the AI. Sarah Glodek, Fortune, 14 Aug. 2026 The diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system is paired with a sizable onboard battery pack, allowing the yacht to cruise silently in fully electric mode when required. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 14 Aug. 2026 And all Orlando-area theme parks start moving into end-of-year holidays mode in November, creating an extended string of festivities. Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mode
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mode
Noun
  • The Bills — sporting their new-look, attack-style 3-4 defense — attempted to stay as vanilla as possible while executing their core defensive philosophies.
    Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026
  • That means cables, socks, Legos, kids' pajamas, and everything else not taller than the unit itself are up for grabs, Pac-Man style.
    Joe Salas August 14, New Atlas, 15 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The mini bar—located inside a gorgeous wooden cabinet—was filled with local spirits like pox, a Mayan liquor made of corn, sugar cane, and wheat, and Mayalen Guerrero mezcal in a bottle so beautiful I was tempted to sneak it back in my suitcase.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Drinkwitz has said Hardy is in good spirits throughout his recovery, even having his son accompany him to rehab.
    PJ Green, Kansas City Star, 19 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Target hiked its full fiscal-year outlook, due to both stronger sales trends and the one-time boost to its bottom line.
    Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Florida is leading this trend, having filed a significant lawsuit against OpenAI and Sam Altman.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Previously, third-tier sides could spend 60 per cent of relevant turnover, alongside varying proportions of equity injected by owners, with the latter included in SCMP calculations in a staggered manner.
    Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • The total airfare would still have to be listed in some manner under the new rules.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Fireplaces are stocked with fragrant piñon wood, making winter stays especially cozy, while silk covers conceal TVs and handmade Le Creuset dishware keep modern amenities from disrupting the mood.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Aug. 2026
  • The real reach completely depends on the platform’s current-day algorithm (and mood).
    Phil Portman, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The latests stats mean AI music has exploded by 650% in 16 months.
    James Peckham, PC Magazine, 20 Apr. 2026
  • The latests forecasts show a new round of storm systems will increase rain chances across much of Northern California and the Central Valley in the coming days.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 9 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Nail designs that feature marbling, gradient finishes, and French tips add dimension to the tone.
    Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 16 Aug. 2026
  • For an easy finishing touch, toss a dotted floral throw pillow onto your sofa or bed to bring in warmer tones and cozier textures.
    Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • That’s why putting a lemon wedge in the glass became a craze.
    Jay R. Brooks, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Kardashian and her team started working on the brand before consumers’ protein craze really kicked off, and were ready to launch in spring 2025.
    Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 11 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Mode.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mode. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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