EMPIRICAL

empirical, empiric

(adjective) derived from experiment and observation rather than theory; “an empirical basis for an ethical theory”; “empirical laws”; “empirical data”; “an empirical treatment of a disease about which little is known”

empiric, empirical

(adjective) relying on medical quackery; “empiric treatment”

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Adjective

empirical (comparative more empirical, superlative most empirical)

Pertaining to or based on experience.

• H. Spencer

Pertaining to, derived from, or testable by observations made using the physical senses or using instruments which extend the senses.

(philosophy of science) Verifiable by means of scientific experimentation.

Synonyms

• empiric

Antonyms

• nonempirical

• anecdotal

Coordinate terms

• conceptual

• theoretical

• anecdotal

Source: Wiktionary


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.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



RESET




Word of the Day

5 July 2024

FENESTRATION

(noun) surgical procedure that creates a new fenestra to the cochlea in order to restore hearing lost because of osteosclerosis


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Coffee Trivia

An article published in Harvard Men’s Health Watch in 2012 shows heavy coffee drinkers live longer. The researchers examined data from 400,000 people and found out that men who drank six or more coffee cups per day had a 10% lower death rate.

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