theorize

verb

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

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
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There was no indication of the context of the posts, which racked up millions of views, with many online commenters theorizing the accounts could have been hacked or that an official was cryptically teasing something. Dylan Butts, CNBC, 26 Mar. 2026 Bordaz had long theorized that the body of the musketeer was probably buried near the French camp, rather than being taken back to France, so that King Louis XIV could personally attend the burial of his loyal servant. Jack Guy, CNN Money, 26 Mar. 2026 There is even a chance that the vessel is actually younger than archaeologists theorize. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 25 Mar. 2026 Emily, a libertarian from Colorado who has been involved with the ACC for several years, theorized that the divide among the members’ priorities is regional. Gaby Del Valle, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for theorize

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of theorize was in 1644

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Cite this Entry

“Theorize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorize. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

theorize

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

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