theorize

verb

the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz How to pronounce theorize (audio)
ˈthir-ˌīz
theorized; theorizing

transitive verb

1
: to form a theory about
2
: to propose as a theory
theorization noun
theorizer noun

Examples of theorize in a Sentence

Many scientists have theorized about the possibility of life on other planets.
Recent Examples on the Web Impact on Sleep Many sleep studies that have examined bruxism have theorized that excessive teeth grinding in preschool-aged children may interfere with quality sleep, which could be linked to the attention and behavior problems that have been observed. Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Parents, 16 July 2024 City members, meanwhile, have theorized online that the bronze was taken by thieves who planned to sell the metal, suggesting that the robbers may not have had political motivations. Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 15 July 2024 Fans have theorized that this extension has been introduced to give Jagger more of a backstage breather an hour into a very physically demanding set. Chris Willman, Variety, 11 July 2024 Specifically, their model found that extending UI to cover quits did indeed raise the job matching quality that Acemoglu and Shimer theorized about more than two decades earlier, translating into higher wages and economic growth overall. Oshan Jarow, Vox, 26 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for theorize 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'theorize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1638, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of theorize was in 1638

Dictionary Entries Near theorize

Cite this Entry

“Theorize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorize. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

theorize

verb
the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz How to pronounce theorize (audio)
theorized; theorizing
: to form a theory : speculate
theorizer noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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