scientific method

American  

[sahy-uhn-tif-ik meth-uhd] / ˈsaɪ ənˌtɪf ɪk ˈmɛθ əd /

noun

1. Often the scientific method the method of discovery used by scientists from the Enlightenment onward, in which a question is identified, data are gathered through observation and research, a hypothesis is formulated and then tested through experimentation, and the results are analyzed to draw a conclusion: usually followed, in the scientific community, by sharing the results so that others can attempt to replicate and confirm them independently.

2. any process followed systematically to arrive at knowledge of the universe, especially in premodern times.

   In developing his systematic reflection, Thomas Aquinas followed Aristotle's scientific method as far as possible.

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scientific method British  

noun

1. a method of investigation in which a problem is first identified and observations, experiments, or other relevant data are then used to construct or test hypotheses that purport to solve it

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scientific method Cultural  

1. An orderly technique of investigation that is supposed to account for scientific progress. The method consists of the following steps: (1) Careful observations of nature. (2) Deduction of natural laws. (3) Formation of hypotheses — generalizations of those laws to previously unobserved phenomena. (4) Experimental or observational testing of the validity of the predictions thus made. Actually, scientific discoveries rarely occur in this idealized, wholly rational, and orderly fashion.

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Etymology

Origin of scientific method

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

The new ideas, he said, backed by scientific proof that they were effective, were “really knocking down a lot of the myths that have been passed down to generations of investigators.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2024

The defendants, if the order is approved, would be banned from making claims that products can cure medical ailments without the proper and documented scientific proof, including random clinical trials, to back up those claims.

From Washington Times • Jul. 19, 2023

According to Macmillan Cancer Support, there is no scientific proof cannabinoids can treat cancer - but research is continuing in the UK and around the world.

From BBC • Aug. 9, 2022

Firearms identification, like all purportedly scientific proof, must adhere to consistent and evidence-based standards.

From Scientific American • May 25, 2022

Father cited scientific proof that birds often molt during hot weather.

From "In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" by Bette Bao Lord