method

noun

meth·​od ˈme-thəd How to pronounce method (audio)
1
: a procedure or process for attaining an object: such as
a(1)
: a systematic procedure, technique, or mode of inquiry employed by or proper to a particular discipline or art
(2)
: a systematic plan followed in presenting material for instruction
the lecture method
b(1)
: a way, technique, or process of or for doing something
often slow in their business methodsT. R. Ybarra
(2)
: a body of skills or techniques
in the art of the novel, heavily armed with methodJ. D. Scott
2
: a discipline that deals with the principles and techniques of scientific inquiry
3
a
: orderly arrangement, development, or classification : plan
The book is completely lacking in method.
b
: the habitual practice of orderliness and regularity
time enough to do everything if only you used methodAngela Thirkell
4
capitalized : a dramatic technique by which an actor seeks to gain complete identification with the inner personality of the character being portrayed
Choose the Right Synonym for method

method, mode, manner, way, fashion, system mean the means taken or procedure followed in achieving an end.

method implies an orderly logical arrangement usually in steps.

effective teaching methods

mode implies an order or course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference.

the preferred mode of transportation

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

an odd manner of conducting

way is very general and may be used for any of the preceding words.

has her own way of doing things

fashion may suggest a peculiar or characteristic way of doing something.

rushing about in his typical fashion

system suggests a fully developed or carefully formulated method often emphasizing rational orderliness.

a filing system

Examples of method in a Sentence

He claims to have developed a new method for growing tomatoes. Their teaching method tries to adapt lessons to each student. We need to adopt more modern methods of doing things.
Recent Examples on the Web Eyewitnesses detailed a range of coercive methods employed by the RSF to compel individuals to join their ranks, including intimidation, torture, summary execution and the withholding of food and medical aid. Pallabi Munsi, CNN, 19 Mar. 2024 De Smet says managers can think about flexibility in several different forms—from offering remote options, to letting workers choose their hours and preferred communication methods. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 19 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for method 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'method.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, prescribed treatment, from Latin methodus, from Greek methodos, from meta- + hodos way

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of method was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near method

Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/method. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

method

noun
meth·​od ˈmeth-əd How to pronounce method (audio)
1
: a way, plan, or procedure for doing something
2
: orderly arrangement

Medical Definition

method

noun
meth·​od ˈmeth-əd How to pronounce method (audio)
: a procedure or process for attaining an object: as
a
: a systematic procedure, technique, or mode of inquiry employed by or proper to a particular discipline see scientific method
b
: a way, technique, or process of or for doing something

More from Merriam-Webster on method

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