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
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.
Two methods could address these issues with real reform: special elections or by appointing interim officials who finish the term but cannot run in the next general election for that office. Bob Marshall, Denver Post, 4 Apr. 2025 This method will minimize creases and save suitcase space. Amy Louise Bailey, Travel + Leisure, 4 Apr. 2025 Basic sobriety tests include standing on one leg, walking and turning, while advanced methods involve things like finger-to-nose and balance tests, according to the N.C. Department of Health & Human Services. Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 4 Apr. 2025 Regardless of the method, defrosting is a waiting game. Cody Godwin, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for method

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Method.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/method. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!