methodology

American  

[meth-uh-dol-uh-jee] / ˌmɛθ əˈdɒl ə dʒi /

noun

plural

methodologies

1. a set or system of methods, principles, and rules for regulating a given discipline, as in the arts or sciences.

2. Philosophy.

   1. the underlying principles and rules of organization of a philosophical system or inquiry procedure.

   2. the study of the principles underlying the organization of the various sciences and the conduct of scientific inquiry.

3. Education. a branch of pedagogics dealing with analysis and evaluation of subjects to be taught and of the methods of teaching them.

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methodology British  

/ ˌmɛθəˈdɒlədʒɪ, ˌmɛθədəˈlɒdʒɪkəl /

noun

1. the system of methods and principles used in a particular discipline

2. the branch of philosophy concerned with the science of method and procedure

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Other Word Forms

• methodological adjective
• methodologically adverb
• methodologist noun

Etymology

Origin of methodology

From the New Latin word methodologia, dating back to 1790–1800. See method, -o-, -logy

Example Sentences

"With further refinement, these methodologies have the potential to predict symptom onset accurately enough that we could use it in individual clinical care."

From Science Daily

Bereaved families were concerned about the delay and the possibility of appointing a chair who used an "untested and unrefined methodology", the letter said.

From BBC

"This is a difficult season for the players, because it's different methodologies, different managers," added the 57-year-old.

From Barron's

The next time junior engineers face a similar crash, the system may be able to guide them through elements of the methodology you used.

From The Wall Street Journal

Second, the BLS adjusted the methodology it uses to estimate how many businesses open and close each month, which affected job figures for the remainder of 2025.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• mode
• procedure
• technique