modus operandi

noun

mo·​dus ope·​ran·​di ˌmō-dəs-ˌä-pə-ˈran-dē How to pronounce modus operandi (audio)
-ˌdī
plural modi operandi ˈmō-ˌdē- How to pronounce modus operandi (audio)
ˈmō-ˌdī-
Synonyms of modus operandi
: a method of procedure
… the best approach … was to do things through quiet persuasion, which is his modus operandi.—James Traub
especially : a distinct pattern or method of operation that indicates or suggests the work of a single criminal in more than one crime
… got her picture identified, discovered her modus operandi, and put a stakeout on her neighborhood. —Time

Examples of modus operandi in a Sentence

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.
Killing became the modus operandi of politics. — Roberto Andrés, The Dial, 28 May 2026 KatzPascale’s entire modus operandi now is to liberate the process. — Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 11 June 2026 The modus operandi extends beyond the interior, shaping how each space relates to the sea and the owner’s style of living. — Rachel Ingram, Robb Report, 31 May 2026 Their modus operandi is to rescue interesting old buildings in a sorry state of disrepair and liberally sprinkle fairy dust over them. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for modus operandi

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of modus operandi was in 1654

Rhymes for modus operandi

See All Rhymes for modus operandi

Browse Nearby Words

modus
modus operandi
modus ponens
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Modus operandi.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/modus%20operandi. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Legal Definition

modus operandi

noun
mo·​dus ope·​ran·​di ˌmō-dəs-ˌä-pə-ˈran-dē, -ˌdī How to pronounce modus operandi (audio)
: a distinct pattern or method of operation especially that indicates or suggests the work of a single criminal in more than one crime
Etymology

New Latin, manner of operating

More from Merriam-Webster on modus operandi

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for modus operandi

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about modus operandi

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