Empiric /(?; 277)/
Em·pir·ic
Empiric
n.
- One who follows an empirical method; one who relies upon practical experience.
-
One who confines himself to applying the results of mere experience or his own observation; especially, in medicine, one who deviates from the rules of science and regular practice; an ignorant and unlicensed pretender; a quack; a charlatan.
Among the Greek physicians, those who founded their practice on experience called themselves empirics.
Swallow down opinions as silly people do empirics' pills.
Empiric
a.
-
Pertaining to, or founded upon, experiment or experience; depending upon the observation of phenomena; versed in experiments.
In philosophical language, the term empirical means simply what belongs to or is the product of experience or observation.
The village carpenter . . . lays out his work by empirical rules learnt in his apprenticeship.
- Depending upon experience or observation alone, without due regard to science and theory; -- said especially of medical practice, remedies, etc.; wanting in science and deep insight; as, empiric skill, remedies.
Phrases & Compounds
- Empirical formula
- See under Formula.