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.
That provides the banks liquidity that then theoretically flows through the financial system. Jeff Cox, CNBC, 22 May 2026 Lasers theoretically reduce the cost per engagement to the electricity needed to fire them while also avoiding the magazine limits imposed by vertical launch cells. Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026 When body weight rises above the upper threshold, biological mechanisms should theoretically engage to prevent further weight gain. Kim Pfotenhauer, The Conversation, 22 May 2026 The media numbers, both visibility and revenue, are huge with a 12-team Playoff, in which every team theoretically has a chance to win a title. Chris Branch, New York Times, 21 May 2026 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 27 May. 2026.

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