technique

noun

tech·​nique tek-ˈnēk How to pronounce technique (audio)
Synonyms of technique
1
: the manner in which technical details are treated (as by a writer) or basic physical movements are used (as by a dancer)
also : ability to treat such details or use such movements
good piano technique
2
a
: a body of technical methods (as in a craft or in scientific research)
b
: a method of accomplishing a desired aim

Synonyms of technique

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Examples of technique in a Sentence

We learned some techniques for relieving stress. I used a special technique to make the bread. The players need to practice in order to improve their technique. a dancer with excellent technique The ice-skaters will be judged on technique and creativity.
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.
Morocco had more talent than Paraguay, more menacing technique and tactics, and, presumably, could mount more dangerous counterattacks. — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 10 July 2026 Ahead, discover their best advice for making your makeup stay put, from strategic layering techniques to inevitable touch-up tricks that can help keep everything unwavering from morning to night. — Marci Robin, Allure, 10 July 2026 Even if that goal proves impractical, techniques pioneered with the thylacine could help other animals. — Taylor Dotson, Scientific American, 10 July 2026 The clinical technique traces back to Norwegian educator Olav Skille, who began developing vibroacoustic therapy (VAT) in the late 1960s and formalized it by 1980. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for technique

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, "technical nature, branch of knowledge, body of technical methods, way of doing something," feminine noun derivative of technique, adjective, "technical," borrowed from New Latin technicus "of the arts or sciences" — more at technical entry 1

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of technique was in 1817

Rhymes for technique

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Browse Nearby Words

technicum
technique
techno
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Cite this Entry

“Technique.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/technique. Accessed 13 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

technique

noun
tech·​nique tek-ˈnēk How to pronounce technique (audio)
1
a
: the manner in which details are treated (as by a writer) or basic physical movements are used (as by a dancer)
b
: ability to treat such details or use such movements
perfect piano technique
2
a
: technical methods especially in scientific research
laboratory technique
b
: a method of accomplishing a desired aim
a technique for handling complaints

Medical Definition

technique

noun
tech·​nique tek-ˈnēk How to pronounce technique (audio)
: a method or body of methods for accomplishing a desired end
new surgical techniques

More from Merriam-Webster on technique

Nglish: Translation of technique for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about technique

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