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

Scientists have long theorized about how once-molten lava cooled and formed the massive columns that make up the geologic wonder. — ABC News, 13 July 2026

Such a structure would inevitably give off waste heat detectable as infrared radiation, so scientists have theorized that looking for that byproduct could be a viable method for searching for extraterrestrial life. — Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 10 July 2026

But the population of mule deer has been steadily decreasing since the 1970s, leading some scientists to theorize that the newly resurgent wolves are relying on other prey, including beavers, rabbits and livestock, the 2021 report states. — Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 8 July 2026

Some researchers have theorized that these curious small galaxies could harbor black holes that are buried in thick shrouds of cosmic dust. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 6 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for theorize

• advise
• applies
• apprise
• arise
• assize
• baptize
• belies
• bitwise
• capsize
• chastise
• chordwise
• clockwise

Kids Definition

theorize

verb

the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz 

theorized; theorizing

: to form a theory : speculate

theorizer noun