methodology

noun

meth·​od·​ol·​o·​gy ˌme-thə-ˈdä-lə-jē How to pronounce methodology (audio)
plural methodologies
Synonyms of methodology
1
: a body of methods, rules, and ideas that are important in a science, art, or discipline : a particular procedure or set of procedures
demonstrating library research methodology
the issue is massive revision of teaching methodologyBob Samples
There have been dozens of studies, using very different methodologies.Daniel Geschwind, quoted at CNN
2
: a science or the study of method
Our … graduate schools of education … are wholeheartedly devoted to methodology.Mortimer Smith, quoted in American Educator
specifically : the analysis of the principles or procedures of inquiry in a particular field

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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.

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
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.
The News & Observer previously covered the methodology of sanitation scores. Eva Flowe july 3, Charlotte Observer, 3 July 2026 Mortgage review methodology CNBC Select reviewed the above mortgage products using a variety of criteria, including average rates, terms, availability, fees, types of loans offered, online experience and customer satisfaction. Kelsey Neubauer, CNBC, 2 July 2026 It is carried out through the United Nations’ established monitoring and verification methodology, which applies the same standards to all parties to conflict. Beth Bailey, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026 The company emphasizes research transparency, publishing its methodology for replication. Dan Fitzpatrick, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for methodology

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1800, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of methodology was in 1800

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Cite this Entry

“Methodology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/methodology. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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