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.

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 Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)