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
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 post came shortly after her ex-boyfriend Zach Bryan released his new album With Heaven on Top, which many fans theorized included a diss track about LaPaglia. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026 If that’s the case, if a single-motor model were to be offered one would theorize there could be a future EX60 with more than 400 miles of range. Joel Feder, The Drive, 8 Jan. 2026 Reed theorized that the rise in gluten-free products for people with celiac disease may contribute to the gluten-free frenzy. Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 8 Jan. 2026 Of course, the Globes are where the famous 2024 gossip sesh between Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, and Keleigh Teller occurred, which lip readers theorized was about Gomez trying to take a picture with Chalamet but being blocked by Jenner. Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 6 Jan. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Theorize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorize. Accessed 13 Jan. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on theorize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!