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

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.
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            In philosophical language, the term empirical means
            simply what belongs to or is the product of
            experience or observation.            --Sir W.
                                                  Hamilton.
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            The village carpenter . . . lays out his work by
            empirical rules learnt in his apprenticeship. --H.
                                                  Spencer.
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   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.
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   Empirical formula. (Chem.) See under Formula.

   Syn: See Transcendental.
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Empiric \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.
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   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.
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            Among the Greek physicians, those who founded their
            practice on experience called themselves empirics.
                                                  --Krauth-Fleming.
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            Swallow down opinions as silly people do empirics'
            pills.                                --Locke.
      Empiric