methodical

adjective

me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthä-di-kəl 

variants or less commonly methodic

mə-ˈthä-dik 

1

: arranged, characterized by, or performed with method or order

a methodical treatment of the subject

2

: habitually proceeding according to method : systematic

methodical in his daily routine

a methodical worker

methodically

mə-ˈthä-di-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

methodicalness

mə-ˈthä-di-kəl-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• neat
• orderly
• organized
• regular
• systematic
• systematized

Examples of methodical in a Sentence

Their methodical review of the evidence exposed some problems with the study's findings.

She's a slow and methodical worker, and her drawings reflect the extra care she takes.

Recent Examples on the Web

And both ended up with Dallas, a franchise known for its patience and methodical approach to roster building. —Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 3 Feb. 2025

The stylistic fit doesn’t make a ton of sense, as Griner’s pace is more methodical than what the Dream should be aiming for. —Sabreena Merchant, The Athletic, 31 Jan. 2025

Knowing that Pan was potentially dangerous and may be looking to flee the country, U.S. Marshals were careful and methodical in their search. —Emma Steele, CBS News, 26 Jan. 2025

With the game hanging in the balance, Mahomes led a methodical drive deep into Buffalo territory. —Kevin Dotson, CNN, 26 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

methodical

adjective

me·​thod·​i·​cal mə-ˈthäd-i-kəl 

1

: marked by or performed or arranged by method or order

a methodical search

2

: being in the habit of following a method : systematic

a methodical teacher

methodically

-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

methodicalness

-i-kəl-nəs 

noun