according to
preposition
1
: in conformity with
2
: as stated or attested by
3
: depending on
Example Sentences
According to rumors I've heard, he was fired for stealing from the company. She always did everything according to the rules. I cooked the rice according to the directions on the box. He was paid according to how quickly he worked.
Word History
Etymology
Middle English acordyng to, from acordyng "agreeing" (from present participle of accorden "to accord entry 1") + to to entry 1
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Kids Definition
according to
preposition
ac·cord·ing to
1
: in agreement with
Everything was done according to the rules.
2
: as stated by
According to the weather report, it's going to rain.