Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- a person who follows an empirical method.
- a quack; charlatan.
adjective
noun
- a person who relies on empirical methods
- a medical quack; charlatan
adjective
- a variant of empirical
c.1600, from Latin empiricus “a physician guided by experience,” from Greek empeirikos “experienced,” from empeiria “experience,” from empeiros “skilled,” from en “in” (see en- (2)) + peira “trial, experiment,” from PIE *per- “to try, risk.” Originally a school of ancient physicians who based their practice on experience rather than theory. Earlier as a noun (1540s) in reference to the sect, and earliest (1520s) in a sense “quack doctor” which was in frequent use 16c.-19c.
n.
- One who is guided by practical experience rather than precepts or theory.
- An unqualified or dishonest practitioner; a charlatan.
adj.
- Empirical.
- Relating to a school of ancient Greek medicine in which a physician relied on experience and precedent in the observation and treatment of disease, and on analogical reasoning in discovering new diseases.