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
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The Fujiwhara effect explained Back in 1921, Japanese meteorologist Sakuhei Fujiwhara published a paper that theorized two storms spinning near each other could start rotating together around a common center point. Mary Gilbert, CNN Money, 25 Sep. 2025 The cops theorize that Daniel siphoned off the money into his own account and faked his death, with plans to escape with the cash. Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 24 Sep. 2025 Fans had been theorizing amid their silence that the hosts were instructed by their parent company not to discuss Kimmel’s suspension. Zack Sharf, Variety, 22 Sep. 2025 Police theorize the shooting was the result of a robbery. Chris Ramirez, jsonline.com, 22 Sep. 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 30 Sep. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on theorize

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