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
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This allowed the scientists to witness the dynamical ‘transmutation’ of exotic particles, which had been theoretically predicted for these exotic quantum states. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2025 Quantum algorithms, such as Shor’s algorithm, theoretically enable these machines to break RSA encryption, the backbone of current internet security, in a matter of hours, if not minutes. John Prisco, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 Boumedienne could theoretically depart college after two seasons and sign in the AHL at just 19 years old, betting on himself early — again. Murat Ates, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025 Extra-virgin olive oil also contains antioxidants that could theoretically counter some of the inflammation and liver damage caused by drinking, Swift said. Jamie Ducharme, Health, 8 Sep. 2025 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 15 Sep. 2025.

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