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Wordnet 3.0

ADJECTIVE (2)

1. derived from experiment and observation rather than theory;
- Example: "an empirical basis for an ethical theory"
- Example: "empirical laws"
- Example: "empirical data"
- Example: "an empirical treatment of a disease about which little is known"
[syn: empirical, empiric]

2. relying on medical quackery;
- Example: "empiric treatment"
[syn: empiric, empirical]


The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Empiric \Em*pir"ic\, Empirical \Em*pir"ic*al\, a. 1. Pertaining to, or founded upon, experiment or experience; depending upon the observation of phenomena; versed in experiments. [1913 Webster] In philosophical language, the term empirical means simply what belongs to or is the product of experience or observation. --Sir W. Hamilton. [1913 Webster] The village carpenter . . . lays out his work by empirical rules learnt in his apprenticeship. --H. Spencer. [1913 Webster] 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. [1913 Webster] Empirical formula. (Chem.) See under Formula. Syn: See Transcendental. [1913 Webster]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):

empirical adj 1: 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" [syn: empirical, empiric] [ant: theoretic, theoretical] 2: relying on medical quackery; "empiric treatment" [syn: empiric, empirical]