- method
-
noun
Etymology: Middle English, prescribed treatment, from Latin methodus, from Greek methodos, from meta- + hodos way
Date: 15th century
1. a procedure or process for attaining an object: as
a.
(1) a systematic procedure, technique, or mode of inquiry employed by or proper to a particular discipline or art
(2) a systematic plan followed in presenting material for instruction
b.
(1) a way, technique, or process of or for doing something
(2) a body of skills or techniques
2. a discipline that deals with the principles and techniques of scientific inquiry
3.
a. orderly arrangement, development, or classification ; plan
b. the habitual practice of orderliness and regularity
4. capitalized a dramatic technique by which an actor seeks to gain complete identification with the inner personality of the character being portrayed
Synonyms:
method, mode, manner, way, fashion, system mean the means taken or procedure followed in achieving an end. method implies an orderly logical arrangement usually in steps <effective teaching methods>. mode implies an order or course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference <the preferred mode of transportation>. manner is close to mode but may imply a procedure or method that is individual or distinctive <an odd manner of conducting>. way is very general and may be used for any of the preceding words <has her own way of doing things>. fashion may suggest a peculiar or characteristic way of doing something <rushing about in his typical fashion>. system suggests a fully developed or carefully formulated method often emphasizing rational orderliness <a filing system>.
New Collegiate Dictionary. 2001.