scientific

[sahy-uhn-tif-ik]

adjective

1. of or relating to science or the sciences.

   scientific studies.

2. occupied or concerned with science.

   scientific experts.

3. regulated by or conforming to the principles of exact science.

   scientific procedures.

4. systematic or accurate in the manner of an exact science.

scientific

/ ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk /

adjective

1. (prenominal) of, relating to, derived from, or used in science

   scientific equipment

2. (prenominal) occupied in science

   scientific manpower

3. conforming with the principles or methods used in science

   a scientific approach

Other Word Forms

• scientifically adverb
• antiscientific adjective
• antiscientifically adverb
• counterscientific adjective
• nonscientific adjective
• nonscientifically adverb
• prescientific adjective
• proscientific adjective
• quasi-scientific adjective
• quasi-scientifically adverb
• superscientific adjective
• superscientifically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of scientific¹

1580–90; < Medieval Latin scientificus, equivalent to scient- ( science ) + -i - -i- + -ficus -fic

Example Sentences

From funding the Human Genome Project to investing in HIV/AIDS treatment to supporting the creation of the COVID-19 vaccines, we’ve proven time and again that strong national governance can overcome scientific obstacles.

Read more on Salon

Our America believes in facts and the process of scientific discovery.

Read more on Salon

It also enhances scientific understanding of depression, a condition that affects more than 264 million people globally and is one of the leading causes of disability.

Read more on Science Daily

The proposal is inconsistent with the school’s belief that scientific funding should be based on scientific merit alone, she said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

"The scientific community says AI technology is amazing," she adds, "but it's nowhere near human intelligence."

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• experimental 
• mathematical 
• objective