theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce theoretically (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-
1
: according to an ideal or assumed set of facts or principles : in theory
2
: in a theoretical way

Examples of theoretically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Turbo has a 24,000-watt dual-motor propulsion system, powered by a 1,800-watt-hour battery that theoretically could deliver 150 miles of range at normal speeds (around 18 mph). Julian Chokkattu, Wired News, 18 July 2025 The startup projects up to $35 billion in annual revenue by 2027—still trailing OpenAI’s own projections by tens of billions of dollars, but enough to theoretically place it on the Fortune 500 between Visa and PayPal. Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 17 July 2025 But that's at least theoretically an unforeseeable outcome. Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 17 July 2025 Much of that two-year take of $878 million is money that exists only theoretically. Evan Clark, Footwear News, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for theoretically

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretically was circa 1626

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Cite this Entry

“Theoretically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretically. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.

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