noun
-
philosophy the doctrine that all knowledge of matters of fact derives from experience and that the mind is not furnished with a set of concepts in advance of experience Compare intuitionism rationalism
-
the use of empirical methods
-
medical quackery; charlatanism
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of empiricism
Explanation
Empiricism means a method of study relying on empirical evidence, which includes things you've experienced: stuff you can see and touch. Empiricism is based on facts, evidence, and research. Scholars and researchers deal in empiricism. If you believe in the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, or Santa Claus, you're out of the realm of empiricism — there are no facts to support those myths. If you want to get something practical done, or to really know what the deal is with something, empiricism is the way to go.
Vocabulary lists containing empiricism
Some Political and Philosophical -isms
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Power Suffix: -ism
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
The Enlightenment
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Empiricism, rationality and truth are all values entwined with the democratic ideal.
From Salon • Oct. 18, 2024
Empiricism, existentialism, solipsism — “Epiphany” sends a lot of -isms into space, just to laugh at the volley.
From New York Times • Jun. 23, 2022
Empiricism promotes the idea that knowledge comes from experience and observation of the world.
From Textbooks • Dec. 30, 2014
Empiricism became cool in the 1960s and 1970s and helped drive the widespread use of computer-based statistical tools.
From Forbes • Jan. 28, 2013
The foundation of Empiricism marked the decline of the medical school of Alexandria.
From Outlines of Greek and Roman Medicine by Elliott, James Sands
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
