method

noun

meth·​od ˈme-thəd 

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 methods …

—T. R. Ybarra

(2)

: a body of skills or techniques

… in the art of the novel, heavily armed with method.

—J. D. Scott

2

: a discipline that deals with the principles and techniques of scientific inquiry see also scientific method

3

a

formal : 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 method.

—Angela Thirkell

4

Method : a dramatic technique by which an actor seeks to gain complete identification with the inner personality of the character being portrayed

Synonyms of method

• approach
• technique
• strategy
• methodology
• way
• manner

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

Sources familiar with City’s planning and methods, who asked to remain anonymous to protect relationships, told The Athletic there is a science behind the scheduling and pacing of their work to avoid burnout and ensure longevity. —Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 12 Dec. 2025

This modern dating method did not exist at the time of the boat’s excavation, and even after the technique was developed it could not be applied to the vessel’s wood planks due to the chemicals used to preserve them for museum display. —Taylor Nicioli, CNN Money, 11 Dec. 2025

This style of beef is dried using a variety of methods, then reconstituted before it’s added to dishes. —Von Diaz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 Dec. 2025

Trials and Disruption Even as his current methods provoke debate, Merhi continues exploring new directions in fertility care. —Matt Emma, USA Today, 11 Dec. 2025

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

Phrases Containing method

• (a) method in/to one's madness
• method of fluxions
• rhythm method
• scientific method
• Stanislavski method
• the scientific method

Kids Definition

method

noun

meth·​od ˈmeth-əd 

1

: a way, plan, or procedure for doing something

2

: orderly arrangement

Medical Definition

method

noun

meth·​od ˈmeth-əd 

: 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