scientific
adjective
sci·en·tif·ic ˌsī-ən-ˈti-fik 
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
ˌsī-ən-ˈti-fi-k(ə-)lē
adverb 
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web Their dispatches include valuable scientific data about interstellar magnetic fields, cosmic rays and plasma waves. 
Amy Hubbard, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2022 Now researchers have revived this art form to create tactile graphics to illustrate scientific data that glow with high resolution. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 31 Aug. 2022 It is said to have focused on the need to share scientific data faster and to translate the science the agency generates into practical policies that are easy to comprehend. Helen Branswell, STAT, 22 Aug. 2022 That is why scientific advancements that could help us produce more nourishment without using more land, whether by improving photosynthesis or otherwise, hold such promise. New York Times, 18 Aug. 2022 Satellites provide internet connectivity, media broadcasts, scientific data and navigation services, among other things. Catherine Stupp, WSJ, 17 Aug. 2022 But over that time, LRS has yet to submit scientific data supporting those claims, Barnes told the Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment Interim Committee. Brian Maffly, The Salt Lake Tribune, 17 Aug. 2022 Infectious disease expert Dave Wessner reports from the 24th International AIDS Conference, where the big picture focused on how everyone should have access to scientific advancements that improve public health. Katie Jennings, Forbes, 3 Aug. 2022 Roughly 70% of disability claims related to burn pit exposure are denied by the VA due to lack of evidence, scientific data and information from the Defense Department. Kevin Freking, Anchorage Daily News, 3 Aug. 2022 See More
Amy Hubbard, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2022 Now researchers have revived this art form to create tactile graphics to illustrate scientific data that glow with high resolution. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 31 Aug. 2022 It is said to have focused on the need to share scientific data faster and to translate the science the agency generates into practical policies that are easy to comprehend. Helen Branswell, STAT, 22 Aug. 2022 That is why scientific advancements that could help us produce more nourishment without using more land, whether by improving photosynthesis or otherwise, hold such promise. New York Times, 18 Aug. 2022 Satellites provide internet connectivity, media broadcasts, scientific data and navigation services, among other things. Catherine Stupp, WSJ, 17 Aug. 2022 But over that time, LRS has yet to submit scientific data supporting those claims, Barnes told the Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment Interim Committee. Brian Maffly, The Salt Lake Tribune, 17 Aug. 2022 Infectious disease expert Dave Wessner reports from the 24th International AIDS Conference, where the big picture focused on how everyone should have access to scientific advancements that improve public health. Katie Jennings, Forbes, 3 Aug. 2022 Roughly 70% of disability claims related to burn pit exposure are denied by the VA due to lack of evidence, scientific data and information from the Defense Department. Kevin Freking, Anchorage Daily News, 3 Aug. 2022 See More 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
Phrases Containing scientific
Kids Definition
scientific
adjective
sci·en·tif·ic ˌsī-ən-ˈti-fik
1
: relating to science or scientists
scientific theories
2
: using or applying the methods of science
scientific research
Medical Definition
scientific
adjective
sci·en·tif·ic ˌsī-ən-ˈtif-ik
: of, relating to, or exhibiting the methods or principles of science