| empirical | 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. <chemistry> See Formula. Synonym: See Transcendental. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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| empirical formula | In chemistry, a formula indicating the kind and number of atoms in the molecules of a substance, or its composition, but not the relation of the atoms to each other or the intimate structure of the molecule. Synonym: molecular formula. (05 Mar 2000) |