from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Eclectic \Ec*lec"tic\, a. [Gr. ?, fr. ? to pick out, choose out:
cf. F. ['e]clectique. 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.
[1913 Webster]
2. Consisting, or made up, of what is chosen or selected; as,
an eclectic method; an eclectic magazine.
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{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}.
[1913 Webster]