Empirical

{ 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.