method
Pluralmethods
Pluralmethods
Formsmethods, methoding, methoded
- 1A way of doing something to finish a task or reach a goal.
Like a recipe: a set of steps you follow to get something done.
We tried a new method for cleaning the old wooden floor.
Her method of teaching helps kids learn to read faster.
UsageSay a method of or for doing something: a method for cleaning.
- 2A style of acting where the actor truly feels the character's emotions.
Like really making yourself feel sad to act sad, instead of just pretending.
He learned the method at a famous acting school in the city.
Actors who follow the method try to really feel what their character feels.
UsageUsually the method, or method acting.
- 3A piece of code that belongs to a class or object and performs a particular task.
Like a button on a machine that makes it do one task when you press it.
You call this method to save the file to disk.
Each button has a method that runs when you click it.
UsageYou call a method to make it run.
Note
Less common meanings
- 4A clear, orderly way of doing things instead of acting at random.
Like keeping your room tidy on purpose instead of throwing things anywhere.
There was real method in the way he packed the moving truck.
Her notes show method, not just lucky guessing.
UsageThere's method in the madness means there is a plan behind something that looks crazy.
Similarorder, system, organization, orderliness, structure
Oppositedisorder, chaos, randomness, disorganization
Note
- 5A teaching book with lessons set out in a clear, fixed order.
Like a step-by-step workbook that teaches you a skill from the start.
She practiced from an old piano method every evening after dinner.
My piano teacher gave me a method with a new lesson on each page.
UsageUsually with an instrument: a piano method.
- 6
- 7In metal casting, to plan how molten metal enters a mold and is supplied as the casting hardens.
- 8Short for method air, a snowboarding or skateboarding jump where the rider grabs the board and arches their back.
- 9Marijuana, the dried plant that some people smoke as a drug.
Showing meanings only.
Practice
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Origin
It came from Latin methodus, which came from Ancient Greek méthodos.
Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 2 facts
- English method derives from Latin methodus, through Middle French. en.wiktionary.org
- Latin methodus was borrowed from Ancient Greek méthodos. en.wiktionary.org