\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.
                                               --Krauth-Fleming.
         Swallow down opinions as silly people do empirics'
         pills.                                --Locke.

\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.
         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}.