Definition of SCIENTIFIC METHOD (original) (raw)
: principles and procedures for the systematic pursuit of knowledge involving the recognition and formulation of a problem, the collection of data through observation and experiment, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses
Examples of scientific method in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
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That is based on the most scientific method possible of predicting what will happen in a game of football — but the games that will determine the relegation fight over the next 23 days are not normal ones. —
Cerys Jones, New York Times, 1 May 2026 Already in 1626, Francis Bacon, a leading proponent of the new scientific method, dreamt of gardens whose fruits were made larger, tastier, and more nutritious through scientific manipulation. —Big Think, 22 Apr. 2026 Their work involved not only traditional scientific methods but also collaboration with Indigenous communities and citizen scientists. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 9 Mar. 2026 The laboratory will develop scientific methods to guide safer, lighter, and longer-lasting rail vehicles. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for scientific method
Word History
First Known Use
1672, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of scientific method was in 1672
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Cite this Entry
“Scientific method.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scientific%20method. Accessed 16 May. 2026.
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