Em*pir"ic [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.
© Webster 1913.
Em*pir"ic (?), 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.
© Webster 1913.