procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər
1
a
: a particular way of accomplishing something or of acting
b
: a step in a procedure
2
a
: a series of steps followed in a regular definite order
legal procedure
a surgical procedure
b
: a set of instructions for a computer that has a name by which it can be called into action
3
a
: a traditional or established way of doing things
Examples of procedure in a Sentence
Installing a car battery is a simple procedure.
What is the procedure for applying for a loan?
New employees are taught the proper safety procedures.
We must follow proper court procedure.
An identity check is standard police procedure.
the procedure for treating a burn
The procedure will take two hours.
Recent Examples on the Web
This will tell you if the broker is licensed and if there have been disciplinary procedures against him or her.
—Steve Weisman, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025
Weak procedure ‘sets you up for failure’ Small local governments routinely fail to adhere to a bedrock principle of financial control and accountability — segregation of duties.
—Jonathan Shorman, Kansas City Star, 16 Jan. 2025
This includes activities such as playing musical instruments or performing intricate surgical procedures.
—Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 16 Jan. 2025
The sheriffs are also working with the administration to fine-tune their policies and communications, especially on immigration and deportations, so that law enforcement and the public understand exactly what the goals and procedures are.
—Paul Bedard, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 15 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for procedure
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Word History
Etymology
French procédure, from Middle French, from proceder
First Known Use
circa 1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1a
Phrases Containing procedure
Dictionary Entries Near procedure
Cite this Entry
“Procedure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/procedure. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər
1
: a manner or method in which a business or action is carried on
2
a
: a series of steps followed in a regular definite order
the procedure for acquiring a passport
b
: a set of instructions for a computer that has a name by which it can be called into action
procedural
adjective
-ˈsēj-(ə-)rəl
Medical Definition
procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər
1
: a particular way of accomplishing something or of acting
2
: a step in a procedure
especially
: a series of steps followed in a regular definite order
a surgical procedure
a therapeutic procedure
Legal Definition
procedure
noun
pro·ce·dure
prə-ˈsē-jər
1
: one or more methods or steps for the enforcement or administration of rights, duties, justice, or laws
civil procedure
police procedure
compare procedural law, substantive law
2
: a particular and especially established way of doing something
a medical procedure
security procedures
More from Merriam-Webster on procedure
Nglish: Translation of procedure for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of procedure for Arabic Speakers
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