variants
also theoretic
1
: relating to what is possible or imagined rather than to what is known to be true or real
On a theoretical level, hiring more people seems logical.
The idea is purely theoretical at this point.
a theoretical argument
The teacher gave us a theoretical [=hypothetical] situation as an example.
The danger is more than just a theoretical possibility.
I was speaking in theoretical terms. [=theoretically]
2
: relating to the general principles or ideas of a subject rather than the practical uses of those ideas
theoretical physics
Cite this Entry
“Theoretical.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/theoretical. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.
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