Empiric

{ 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.

The village carpenter . . . lays out his work by empirical rules learnt in his apprenticeship.

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.

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.

Swallow down opinions as silly people do empirics' pills.