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
Weather data can be used to select cooling modes, which the company says cuts auxiliary power consumption during operation by 30% and standby consumption by 50%. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 16 Sep. 2026 Power curves, regenerative braking, and traction control can all be tuned, while ride modes can be changed from the handlebar while riding. New Atlas, 16 Sep. 2026 The trailer shows the actor in full-makeup character mode as a brash entrepreneur who has somehow caused the end of the world and is trying to fix his mistake. Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 16 Sep. 2026 The contexts were different, but the underlying mode of thinking was strikingly similar. Alec Litowitz, Fortune, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mode
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mode
Noun
  • These diverse cultural influences are evident in the old city’s Italian-style 18th-century architecture, another major draw for visitors.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Sep. 2026
  • In a Towie-style home, her former close friend Cee, who is married to Marcus’s brother Mario (Agamemnon), hosts a tense event to mark her return – blood-spattered and still in shock.
    The Week UK, TheWeek, 18 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • One of the Roundhouse’s biggest brags is an extensive liquor collection, highlighting spirits produced in New York State.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Sep. 2026
  • Hoorne plays Woranart, a grandmother in her 80s whose youthful looks conceal a centipede spirit searching for a new host, with Oui (Baipor Thitiya Jirapornsilp), the family’s youngest member, emerging as her likely target.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 14 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Cam Little became the face of the trend last year, making a 70-yarder in preseason and then a regular-season record 68-yarder.
    Saad Yousuf, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • In the 2002 midterms, Republicans again bucked the historical trend, gaining seats in both chambers following the post-9/11 political climate.
    Cal Thomas, Arkansas Online, 8 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The San Diego County medical examiner’s office plans to perform autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death of the three people.
    Iris Kwok, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026
  • Lizzie and Bridget’s Relationship in Monster The show quickly portrays a dynamic between Lizzie and Bridget, with Bridget’s brash, uninhibited manner drawing out the more reserved and stoic Lizzie.
    Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Still, with new coach Mike Babcock on board and two of the best players in the NHL to lead the way, fans are in a generally good mood.
    Allan Mitchell, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • The plant contains mescaline, a psychoactive compound that alters perception and mood, sharpening the senses and amplifying feelings of empathy and connection.
    Pardis Mahdavi, The Conversation, 8 Sep. 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
  • That refusal to settle on a single reading extends to how Fan and Franky calibrated the relationship’s tone on set.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 18 Sep. 2026
  • The New York setting also perfectly complements Control Resonant’s irresistible tone.
    Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 18 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • And yet scores of companies selling this and other unapproved drugs have blown through regulatory safeguards to offer access to customers online — part of a national craze that is changing the way consumers buy drugs.
    Daniel Gilbert, CBS News, 16 Sep. 2026
  • The hair metal craze was off to a very jumpy and problematic start.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 15 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Mode.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mode. Accessed 20 Sep. 2026.

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