WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Em*pir"ic
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [L. empiricus an empiric, Gr. fare: cf. F. empirique. See In, and Fare.]
Definition : 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.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913

Pronunciation : Em*pir"ic, Em*pir"ic*al
Part of Speech : a.
Definition : 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.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913