by means of

phrase

Synonyms of by means ofnext
: through the use of

Examples of by means of 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.
Richard Yakel, 57, is charged with battery by means of a deadly weapon, criminal recklessness committed with a deadly weapon, resisting law enforcement, and four misdemeanors. Meredith Colias-Pete, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026 Somehow this abstract understanding exists alongside, or by means of, the objects in the waiting room—a paper cup from the water cooler, or a copy of People magazine. Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 21 Aug. 2026 The indictment added a special circumstance allegation that the murders were committed by means of lying in wait, in addition to an allegation involving the use of a knife, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 20 Aug. 2026 He was also found guilty in June of one count each of fleeing a pursuing peace officer’s motor vehicle while driving recklessly, assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury and driving or taking a vehicle without consent. City News Service, Daily News, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for by means of

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of by means of was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“By means of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20means%20of. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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