† orycticsObs.rare—1. [ad.Gr. ὀρυκτικ-ός pertaining to digging or mining: see -ic 2.] = oryctology. 1888R. Y. Tyrrell in Fortn.Rev. Jan. 57 He added that his friend is about to sell his books and buy a spade, with a view to graduating with honours in Oryctics.