Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Empiric?

\Em*pir"ic\ (?; 277), n. [L. empiricus an empiric, Gr. ? experienced, equiv. to ?; ? in + ? a trial, experiment; akin to ? ford, way, and E. fare: cf. F. empirique. See {In}, and {Fare}.] 1. One who follows an empirical method; one who relies upon practical experience. 2. 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. --Krauth-Fleming. Swallow down opinions as silly people do empirics' pills. --Locke.
\Em*pir"ic\, Empirical \Em*pir"ic*al\, a. 1. 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. --Sir W. Hamilton. The village carpenter . . . lays out his work by empirical rules learnt in his apprenticeship. --H. Spencer. 2. 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. {Empirical formula}. (Chem.) See under {Formula}. Syn: See {Transcendental}.