trial and error

noun

: a finding out of the best way to reach a desired result or a correct solution by trying out one or more ways or means and by noting and eliminating errors or causes of failure
also : the trying of one thing or another until something succeeds

Examples of trial and error in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web By Jake Henry Smith August 6, 2024 The best work sneakers are a nonnegotiable piece of the modern-day office uniform—but finding the right pair can take some trial and error. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 6 Aug. 2024 Despite intense trial and error that led to many deaths, Rhaenyra found dragonriders to join her cause against the Greens. Nick Romano, EW.com, 29 July 2024 This means current treatment plans involve a lot of trial and error, which can be slow and frustrating for patients in pain. Rachael Rzasa Lynn, The Conversation, 25 July 2024 Some cocktails take weeks of trial and error—particularly at Death & Co., at the time perhaps the most creative and precise cocktail bar in the country—but the Kingston Negroni was a one-shot hit. Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 6 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for trial and error 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trial and error.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trial and error was in 1806

Dictionary Entries Near trial and error

Cite this Entry

“Trial and error.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trial%20and%20error. Accessed 18 Aug. 2024.

Kids Definition

trial and error

noun
: the trying of one thing or another until something succeeds

More from Merriam-Webster on trial and error

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!