theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē 

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

So … people could theoretically just switch to paying for sugary drinks with NON-SNAP funds, right? — Cooper Katz McKim, NPR, 4 Sep. 2026

There were only five that the Clippers owned free and clear with no strings, although the league could theoretically have forfeited a couple of swaps, as well. — John Hollinger, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026

But if the fighting starts to slow down and the Russian military is able to regroup, Bergmann said Russia could theoretically develop the capabilities to attack one of the Baltic states by 2028. — Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026

Quantum networks could protect messages with theoretically hack-proof encryption and also help quantum devices operate in unison to boost their capabilities. — IEEE Spectrum, 2 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for theoretically

• hermetically
• magnetically
• pathetically
• electrophoretically
• parenthetically
• sympathetically