Definition of METHODOLOGY (original) (raw)
1
: a body of methods, rules, and postulates employed by a discipline : a particular procedure or set of procedures
demonstrating library research methodology
the issue is massive revision of teaching methodology—
Bob Samples
2
: the analysis of the principles or procedures of inquiry in a particular field
Did you know?
The methodology employed in an experiment is essential to its success, and bad methodology has spoiled thousands of research projects. So whenever a piece of research is published in a scientific or medical journal, the researchers always carefully describe their methodology; otherwise, other scientists couldn't possibly judge the quality of what they've done.
Synonyms
Examples of methodology in a Sentence
He blamed the failure of their research on poor methodology. for solving crossword puzzles my usual methodology is to begin by filling in all of the answers I'm reasonably sure of
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.
The choice is clear: Continue with outdated approaches or embrace modern methodologies that match today's challenges. —Rob De La Espriella, Forbes, 6 Jan. 2025 Previous studies that have shown a small amount of alcohol daily can lower risk of cardiovascular disease are being called out for their methodology, according to The New York Times. —Renée Onque, CNBC, 4 Jan. 2025 To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page. —Sarah Han, Allure, 3 Jan. 2025 At a time when expectations of topical immediacy seem out of step with the methodology of museum research, this third iteration of PST surfaces the discrepancy between the past and the present in intriguing ways. —Bryan Barcena, Artforum, 1 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for methodology 
Word History
Etymology
New Latin methodologia, from Latin methodus + -logia -logy
First Known Use
1800, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of methodology was in 1800
Dictionary Entries Near methodology
Cite this Entry
“Methodology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/methodology. Accessed 16 Jan. 2025.
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Last Updated: 9 Jan 2025 - Updated example sentences
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