There are two functions of the soul, -- contemplation and practice.
South.
There is a distinction, but no opposition, between theory and
practice; each, to a certain extent, supposes the other; theory is
dependent on practice; practice must have preceded theory.
Sir W. Hamilton.
5. Systematic exercise for instruction or discipline; as, the troops
are called out for practice; she neglected practice in music.
6. Application of science to the wants of men; the exercise of any
profession; professional business; as, the practice of medicine or law;
a large or lucrative practice.
Practice is exercise of an art, or the application of a science in
life, which application is itself an art.
Sir W. Hamilton.
7. Skillful or artful management; dexterity in contrivance or the use
of means; art; stratagem; artifice; plot; -- usually in a bad sense.
[Obs.] Bacon.
He sought to have that by practice which he could not by prayer.
Sir P. Sidney.
8. (Math.) A easy and concise method of applying the rules of
arithmetic to questions which occur in trade and business.
9. (Law) The form, manner, and order of conducting and carrying on
suits and prosecutions through their various stages, according to the
principles of law and the rules laid down by the courts. Bouvier.
Syn. -- Custom; usage; habit; manner.
Prac"tice (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Practiced (?); p. pr. & vb. n.
Practicing (?).] [Often written practise, practised, practising.] 1. To
do or perform frequently, customarily, or habitually; to make a
practice of; as, to practice gaming. "Incline not my heart . . .
practice wicked works." Ps. cxli. 4.
2. To exercise, or follow, as a profession, trade, art, etc., as, to
practice law or medicine.
2. To exercise one's self in, for instruction or improvement, or to
acquire discipline or dexterity; as, to practice gunnery; to practice
music.
4. To put into practice; to carry out; to act upon; to commit; to
execute; to do. "Aught but Talbot's shadow whereon to practice your
severity." Shak.
As this advice ye practice or neglect.
Pope.