surmise 1 of 2

Definition of surmisenext
as in guess
an opinion or judgment based on little or no evidence my surmise is that the couple's "good news" is the announcement that they are going to have a baby

Synonyms & Similar Words

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surmise

2 of 2

verb

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of surmise
Noun
One surmise is that the syndrome is caused by residual viral debris that continues to activate and/or exhaust the immune system. Melissa Healystaff Writer, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2022 Instead, Rodrigues and Ohlrogge surmise, the glut of retail investors are probably not showing up for the vote. Scott Nover, Quartz, 7 Sep. 2022
Verb
The scientists surmised that the four-cheese pizza may provide more attractive chemical cues or be easier to digest. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Dec. 2025 And if people want to surmise that, great. Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 14 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for surmise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for surmise
Noun
  • But these are just guesses, not official explanations.
    Teri Sforza, Oc Register, 9 Jan. 2026
  • But my guess is that the truth will be lost on the average reader.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Treaties assume shared values, stable circumstances, and mutual benefit.
    Daniel Ross Goodman, The Washington Examiner, 9 Jan. 2026
  • The video quickly went viral, reaching over 2 million views with many viewers assuming the image was authentic.
    Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • But are we not supposed to draft those guys?
    Michael Salfino, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
  • We’re all supposed to be embarrassed by prizes or feel above them or apart from them.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • All these are fears that most would’ve presumed, but now exhibitors are finally going public with their fears.
    Brian Welk, IndieWire, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Intelligence analysts, friend and enemy alike, do not have the luxury to presume that the American commander in chief is just having a bad night.
    Tom Nichols, The Atlantic, 2 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Surmise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/surmise. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

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