scientific

adjective

sci·​en·​tif·​ic ˌsī-ən-ˈti-fik How to pronounce scientific (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or exhibiting the methods or principles of science
2
: conducted in the manner of science or according to results of investigation by science : practicing or using thorough or systematic methods
scientific advertising
scientific baby care
a scientific boxer
scientifically adverb

Examples of scientific in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The reformers driving this movement believed in human progress, scientific management, the use of government power for the public good, and replacing political patronage with the hiring of experts. Johnathan K Williams / Made By History, TIME, 30 Jan. 2025 Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 30 Jan. 2025 Will fly one scientific instrument awarded under NASA’s CLPS initiative. Richard Tribou, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Jan. 2025 Venado is designed to help generate scientific breakthroughs in areas such as materials science, astrophysics and renewable energy. Ina Fried, Axios, 30 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for scientific 

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French and Medieval Latin; Middle French sientifique, scientifique, borrowed from Medieval Latin scientificus "producing knowledge, relating to knowledge" (translating Greek epistēmonikós), from Latin scientia "knowledge, science" + -ficus -fic

Note: The Medieval Latin transition in sense from "producing knowledge" to "relating to knowledge" (in the text of a translation of Aristotle's Posterior Analytics) is described in detail in the Oxford English Dictionary, third edition.

First Known Use

1645, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of scientific was in 1645

Dictionary Entries Near scientific

Cite this Entry

“Scientific.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scientific. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

scientific

adjective
sci·​en·​tif·​ic ˌsī-ən-ˈtif-ik How to pronounce scientific (audio)
: of, relating to, or exhibiting the methods or rules of science
scientifically adverb

Medical Definition

scientific

adjective
sci·​en·​tif·​ic ˌsī-ən-ˈtif-ik How to pronounce scientific (audio)
: of, relating to, or exhibiting the methods or principles of science
scientifically adverb

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