Based on observation, experience, or experiment rather than on theory or pure logic. It usually describes scientific evidence that can be tested and measured.
From Greek 'empeirikos' meaning 'experienced,' from 'empeiria' (experience), from 'en' (in) + 'peira' (trial, attempt). It first described doctors relying on experience instead of theory. Science later adopted it to mean knowledge grounded in observation.
Empirical knowledge is 'what we’ve actually tried,' not just what we’ve imagined. The word carries a quiet warning: our theories are only as good as the experiments and observations behind them. In science, 'empirical' is a badge of reality-checking.
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