theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce theoretically (audio)
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
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.
At Mach 4, a vehicle could theoretically travel across the continental United States in less than an hour, illustrating the significance of sustained high-speed flight. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 7 June 2026 The same might happen in occasional users, whose REM sleep could theoretically become more intense as the acute effects of weed wears off during the night. Shoshi Parks, Popular Science, 3 June 2026 Despite theoretically playing higher up the pitch, Maradona popped up everywhere against England. Michael Cox, New York Times, 3 June 2026 What Barker, Parsons, and Markiplier built is a version of what the independent film movement has always theoretically valued — work developed outside the studio system, connected to real audiences, with a filmmaker’s singular vision intact. Dana Harris-Bridson, IndieWire, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for theoretically

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretically was circa 1626

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Cite this Entry

“Theoretically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretically. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

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