I. ˈpraktə̇kəl, -tēk- adjective
( sometimes -er/-est )
Etymology: Late Latin practic us practical (from Greek praktikos, from praktos, verbal of prassein, prattein to pass through or over, experience, transact, negotiate, practice + -ikos -ic) + English -al; akin to Greek peran to pass through — more at fare
1.
a. : actually or actively engaged in some course of action or occupation
a practical man but no theorist
b. : pursuing an occupation as a means of livelihood rather than as an avocation or sideline
the conflicting views of practical farmers and country gentlemen
2.
a. : of, relating to, or consisting or manifested in practice or action — compare ideal , speculative , theoretical
a practical matter
practical questions
b. : being such in practice, conduct, effect, or essential character : virtual
our practical freedom is better than your nominal liberty
3. : available, usable, or valuable in practice or action : capable of being turned to use or account : useful
a practical acquaintance with a language
practical economy
4.
a. : given or disposed to action as opposed to speculation or abstraction
b. : skillful or experienced from practice : evincing practice or skill : capable of applying knowledge to some useful end
a practical mind
c.
(1) : qualified by practice or practical training but lacking the highest professional training
the duties of practical and graduate nurses
(2) : designed to supplement theoretical training by experience
practical work in the field or laboratory
(3) chiefly Britain : concerned with or used in connection with practical training
a practical room
practical examinations
5. : aware of and willing to overlook or participate in chicaneries or irregularities : unscrupulous
a practical politician who knew which side his bread was buttered on
6. : practicable 2b
7. : practicing
a practical Catholic
II. noun
( -s )
: an examination requiring demonstration of some practical skill