methodology

noun

meth·​od·​ol·​o·​gy ˌme-thə-ˈdä-lə-jē 

plural methodologies

1

: a body of methods, rules, and postulates employed by a discipline : a particular procedure or set of procedures

demonstrating library research methodology

the issue is massive revision of teaching methodology

—Bob Samples

2

: the analysis of the principles or procedures of inquiry in a particular field

Did you know?

Methodology and Science

The methodology employed in an experiment is essential to its success, and bad methodology has spoiled thousands of research projects. So whenever a piece of research is published in a scientific or medical journal, the researchers always carefully describe their methodology; otherwise, other scientists couldn't possibly judge the quality of what they've done.

Synonyms

• course
• line
• policy
• procedure
• program

Examples of methodology in a Sentence

He blamed the failure of their research on poor methodology.

for solving crossword puzzles my usual methodology is to begin by filling in all of the answers I'm reasonably sure of

Recent Examples on the Web

The choice is clear: Continue with outdated approaches or embrace modern methodologies that match today's challenges. —Rob De La Espriella, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025

Previous studies that have shown a small amount of alcohol daily can lower risk of cardiovascular disease are being called out for their methodology, according to The New York Times. —Renée Onque, CNBC, 4 Jan. 2025

To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page. —Sarah Han, Allure, 3 Jan. 2025

At a time when expectations of topical immediacy seem out of step with the methodology of museum research, this third iteration of PST surfaces the discrepancy between the past and the present in intriguing ways. —Bryan Barcena, Artforum, 1 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin methodologia, from Latin methodus + -logia -logy

First Known Use

1800, in the meaning defined at sense 1