speculation

noun

spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce speculation (audio)
Synonyms of speculationnext
: 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.
The speculation has been that James had an influence on the selection, and ESPN's reporting seemed to confirm that. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 22 Jan. 2026 Brooklyn Peltz Beckham, son of David and Victoria Beckham, released a lengthy statement on Instagram on Monday clarifying rumors of a family feud, sparking frenzied speculation on social media. Dani Di Placido, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026 Amid the drama, much speculation arose about the thoughts of those who worked on the film and a possible inclusion of Lively’s close friend Swift. Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 21 Jan. 2026 This is all purely speculation, just dreaming big for the duo. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 21 Jan. 2026 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 25 Jan. 2026.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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