theorem

noun

the·​o·​rem ˈthē-ə-rəm How to pronounce theorem (audio)
ˈthir-əm
1
: a formula, proposition, or statement in mathematics or logic deduced or to be deduced from other formulas or propositions
2
: an idea accepted or proposed as a demonstrable truth often as a part of a general theory : proposition
the theorem that the best defense is offense
3
4
: a painting produced especially on velvet by the use of stencils for each color
theorematic adjective

Examples of theorem 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.
Based on Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle and the quantum no-cloning theorem, QKD systems theoretically enable unbreakable security. Vibhu Sharma, Forbes.com, 11 June 2025 The revenue equivalence theorem states that, under certain idealized mathematical conditions, a seller should expect the same revenue under all four auction types. Jack Murtagh, Scientific American, 9 June 2025 In 2026, they may be reminded of another political theorem: There is no education in the second kick from a mule. Michael Graham, Boston Herald, 6 June 2025 But mathematicians think Taylor and Wiles’ modularity theorem is just one instance of a universal fact. Joseph Howlett, Quanta Magazine, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for theorem

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin theorema, from Greek theōrēma, from theōrein to look at, from theōros spectator, from thea act of seeing — more at theater entry 1

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of theorem was in 1551

Cite this Entry

“Theorem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorem. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

theorem

noun
the·​o·​rem ˈthē-ə-rəm How to pronounce theorem (audio)
ˈthi(-ə)r-əm
1
: a formula, proposition, or statement in mathematics or logic that has been or is to be proved from other formulas or propositions
2
: an idea accepted or proposed as a demonstrable truth

More from Merriam-Webster on theorem

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