methodical

adjective

me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthä-di-kəl 

variants or less commonly methodic

mə-ˈthä-dik 

1

: arranged, characterized by, or performed with method or order

a methodical treatment of the subject

2

: habitually proceeding according to method : systematic

methodical in his daily routine

a methodical worker

methodically

mə-ˈthä-di-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

methodicalness

mə-ˈthä-di-kəl-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• neat
• orderly
• organized
• regular
• systematic
• systematized

Examples of methodical in a Sentence

Their methodical review of the evidence exposed some problems with the study's findings.

She's a slow and methodical worker, and her drawings reflect the extra care she takes.

Recent Examples on the Web

Brewing: Some people like the methodical, ritualistic aspect of brewing coffee. —Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 24 May 2025

That was in some part more to do with the intensity and micro-management of Andy Flower, and the rather methodical plod of a team that was past its sell-by date. —Tim Ellis, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025

The storytelling is sluggish, not because the movie’s physical pace is slow but because its mental pace is methodical and academic. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 20 May 2025

The best thing to do is to use your famous practicality to be methodical and strategic and find solutions. —Kyle Thomas, People.com, 11 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for methodical

• periodical

Kids Definition

methodical

adjective

me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthäd-i-kəl 

1

: marked by or performed or arranged by method or order

a methodical search

2

: being in the habit of following a method : systematic

a methodical teacher

methodically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

methodicalness

-i-kəl-nəs 

noun