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Webster 1913 Edition

Eclectic

Ec-lec′tic

,
Adj.
[Gr. [GREEK], fr. [GREEK] to pick out, choose out: cf. F.
éclectique
. See
Eclogue
, and cf.
Elect
.]
1.
Selecting; choosing (what is true or excellent in doctrines, opinions, etc.) from various sources or systems;
as, an
eclectic
philosopher
.
2.
Consisting, or made up, of what is chosen or selected;
as, an
eclectic
method; an
eclectic
magazine.
Eclectic physician
, one of a class of practitioners of medicine, who select their modes of practice and medicines from all schools; formerly, sometimes the same as botanic physician.
[U.S.]
–
Eclectic school
.
(Paint.)
See
Bolognese school
, under
Bolognese
.

Ec-lec′tic

,
Noun.
One who follows an eclectic method.

Webster 1828 Edition

Eclectic

ECLEC'TIC

,
Adj.
[Gr. to choose.] Selecting; choosing; an epithet given to certain philosophers of antiquity, who did not attach themselves to any particular sect, but selected from the opinions and principles of each, what they thought solid and good. Hence we say, an eclectic philosopher; the eclectic sect.

ECLEC'TIC

,
Noun.
A philosopher who selected from the various systems such opinions and principles as he judged to be sound and rational.
1.
A christian who adhered to the doctrines of the Eclectics. Also, one of a sect of physicians.

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