1840, "method of writing which requires heat to develop the characters," from thermo- + -graphy.

method of swimming, 1867, from breast (n.) + stroke (n.). Related: Breast-stroker.

1922, abbreviation of frequency modulation as a method of encoding information in radio waves by varying the frequency of the wave. As a method of broadcasting radio programs, it began in the late 1930s and was notable for superior noise reduction and the capability of broadcasting in stereo. As the chosen medium for broadcasting stereo rock music it became popular in the 1970s.

1832, in gardening, as a method of plant propagation, from layer (n.). Meaning "to form into layers" is from 1852. Related: Layered; layering.

1874, "method of lessening friction by surrounding a shaft with loose balls;" see ball (n.1) + bearing (n.). They "bear" the friction.

"science of classification," 1819, from French taxonomie (1813), coined irregularly from Greek taxis "arrangement" (see tactics) + -nomia "method" (see -nomy). Related: Taxonomic; taxonomist.

1540s, "to vote by secret method" (such as ballot balls), from ballot (n.). Related: Balloted; balloting.

"Aristotelian teachings of the medieval schools and universities of Europe, characterized by, among other things, a stiff and formal method of discussion," 1732, from scholastic in its oldest sense + -ism.

also kick-stand, "metal support for holding a bicycle upright," 1936, from kick (n.) + stand (n.). So called for the method of putting it in position.

1765, from French tontine, named for Lorenzo Tonti, Neapolitan banker in Paris who in 1653 first proposed this method of raising money in France.