methodology

[meth-uh-dol-uh-jee]

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.

methodology

/ 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

Other Word Forms

• methodological adjective
• methodologist noun
• methodologically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of methodology¹

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

Example Sentences

Just apply a range of criteria and methodologies, and you’ll come up with, say, the 10 most-friendly, healthy or affordable spots to retire.

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The measure lags behind other readings, but is closely watched because of its methodology, which controls for factors other data sources don’t, like size and type of home.

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While a paper’s methodology could be more or less rigorous, and data could be tortured into fitting preconceived conclusions, the falsification of an entire study was extraordinary.

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That figure uses a different methodology intended to replicate the government’s monthly jobs report more closely.

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Those lessons would serve him later as he developed and refined his intervention methodologies.

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Related Words

• mode 
• procedure 
• technique