Definitions for: Empiric


[adj] (archaic) relying on medical quackery; "empiric treatment"



Webster (1913) Definition: 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.

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