Definition of scientific

The word "scientific" has its roots in Old French and Middle English. The term "scientifique" was first used in the 12th century to describe knowledge acquired through observation and experimentation. It was derived from the Latin words "scire," meaning "to know," and "ficium," meaning "to make" or "to do." Over time, the term evolved to describe the study of nature, the natural world, and the methods used to investigate and understand it. By the 16th century, the term "scientific" had taken on its modern meaning, referring to the systematic and empirical study of the natural world, and the principles and methods used to advance human knowledge.