Socratic method

American  

noun

1. the use of questions, as employed by Socrates, to develop a latent idea, as in the mind of a pupil, or to elicit admissions, as from an opponent, tending to establish a proposition.

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Socratic method British  

noun

1. philosophy the method of instruction by question and answer used by Socrates in order to elicit from his pupils truths he considered to be implicitly known by all rational beings Compare maieutic

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Etymology

Origin of Socratic method

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

That led researchers to pivot to a new paradigm for its founding goal of achieving humanlike intelligence: an automated Socratic method of questioning dubbed “reasoning.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 9, 2025

It was there he learned the Socratic method of inquiry by oral combat that would underlie both his remarkable achievements and the harsh judgments that would precipitate his fall from grace.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 7, 2025

I was scared about whether, even with my hearing aids, I would be able to keep up with the quick-fire exchanges that fill my classroom as I engage law students in the Socratic method.

From Slate • Oct. 20, 2024

I think Socrates would be kind of cool because it's all questions, the Socratic method.

From Salon • Feb. 28, 2023

“So do I,” added her husband, who welcomed the thought of a chance for trying the Socratic method of education on modern youth.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott