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.
Other similar scientific research institutions followed. Robert Hormats, Time, 18 May 2025 There is insufficient scientific evidence to conclude that a black bear hunt is necessary to reduce their numbers to maintain a healthy population and protect their habitat. Grant Gelhardt, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 May 2025 One expert said the pipeline of tech talent is strong now, but there are concerns the pipeline might dry up if the Trump administration continues to cut federal funding for scientific research. Cory Smith, Baltimore Sun, 16 May 2025 Where scientific breakthroughs meet patient care Sylvester’s rampant success can be largely attributed to its pursuit of precision medicine — the right treatment at the right time for the right patient. Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami Herald, 16 May 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

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Cite this Entry

“Scientific.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scientific. Accessed 28 May. 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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