speculation

noun

spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce speculation (audio)
: an act or instance of speculating: such as
a
: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain
b
: a transaction involving such speculation

Examples of speculation in a Sentence

He dismissed their theories as mere speculation. The book is just a lot of idle speculation about the future. Her speculations leave many questions unanswered. He lost everything in foolish land speculation.
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.
What to expect in the Donna Adelson trial Ahead of Donna Adelson's trial, there's been much speculation over who may take the stand and who won't. Jeff Burlew, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2025 This is not speculation but infrastructure built on efficiency, access, and resilience. Becca Bratcher, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025 As with Clarkson’s involvement in Season 29, there had been speculation about McEntire’s participation in Season 28 following the death of Blackstock, who was her stepson. Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 19 Aug. 2025 While the media and political opponents are particularly interested in the cost—totting up how much cash is spent on décor—there is often also speculation about what the changes to the home's style says about its new occupants. Chloe Mayer, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for speculation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of speculation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Speculation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speculation. Accessed 23 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

speculation

noun
spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspek-yə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce speculation (audio)
1
: thoughts or guesses about something
much speculation about who the new teacher would be
2
: the taking of a big risk in business in hopes of making a big profit

Legal Definition

speculation

noun
spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce speculation (audio)
: an act or instance of speculating: as
a
: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain
b
: a transaction involving such speculation

More from Merriam-Webster on speculation

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