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.
There has long been speculation that at least two of them needed to drop out to give an opposition candidate a chance against Mamdani, who many view as too far on the Left side of the political spectrum to be mayor. Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 13 Sep. 2025 Deion’s health struggles in the offseason were an object of speculation. Sam Settleman, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2025 There's been widespread internet speculation that the brand might end up charging for its RideSync services, but CFMoto has dispelled those rumors as well. New Atlas, 12 Sep. 2025 While authorities have not yet determined a motive, speculation and misinformation about the shooter's identity and affiliations have spread rapidly online, creating a climate of uncertainty. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 Sep. 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 15 Sep. 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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