theorize

verb

the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz 

ˈthir-ˌīz

theorized; theorizing

intransitive verb

: to form a theory : speculate

transitive verb

1

: to form a theory about

2

: to propose as a theory

theorization

ˌthē-ə-rə-ˈzā-shən 

ˌthir-ə-

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

Fans have been theorizing when the album will drop, will there will be any singles and will there be more surprises on the podcast? —Bryan West, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2025

Genetics may be one reason, but given the prevalence of FFA among women whose periods have stopped, researchers theorize shifting hormones could be part of the issue. —Ashley Abramson, Allure, 4 Aug. 2025

Fans have theorized that the iconic group is reuniting as part of Beyoncé’s three-act albums, which began in 2022 with the release of her Renaissance album and record-breaking tour. —Emily Blackwood, People.com, 29 July 2025

Webb theorized that Mets first base coach Antoan Richardson, formerly the Giants’ first base coach, picked up on a tell that allowed New York to time him up. —Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 26 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for theorize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

theorize

verb

the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz 

theorized; theorizing

: to form a theory : speculate

theorizer noun