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
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.
The study’s authors theorize that some of the tools were initially utilized for jobs like chiseling. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 9 July 2025 Members of the team working on all-topographic neural networks theorized that their approach would result in more humanlike machine vision. IEEE Spectrum, 8 July 2025 The findings also led Huh to theorize that in texts between people, emoji may not only serve as expressive devices, but also as signals of attentiveness and emotional engagement. Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 3 July 2025 Lamm theorizes that computers and AI simulation would play a huge role in bringing a species like dinosaurs into our present. Katie Grant, Parents, 3 July 2025 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 15 Jul. 2025.

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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