speculation

noun

spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce speculation (audio)
: an act or instance of speculating: such as
a
: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain
b
: a transaction involving such speculation

Examples of speculation in a Sentence

He dismissed their theories as mere speculation. The book is just a lot of idle speculation about the future. Her speculations leave many questions unanswered. He lost everything in foolish land speculation.
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.
Kamala Harris weighs in on another presidential bid Despite the speculation, the governor was one of the Biden-Harris campaign's most vocal surrogates. Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 26 Oct. 2025 Harper, an eight-time All-Star and two-time MVP, told The Athletic's Matt Gelb he's hurt by all the trade speculation that has come from Dombrowski's comments. Shaun McAvoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Oct. 2025 Rather than punishing Li — as some initial speculation suggested — Beijing formalized his role last week as top trade negotiator. J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 26 Oct. 2025 Despite reconciliation rumor speculation in the comments of the post, a source told PEOPLE at the time that the exes are not back together. Sarah Jones, PEOPLE, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for speculation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of speculation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Speculation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speculation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

speculation

noun
spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspek-yə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce speculation (audio)
1
: thoughts or guesses about something
much speculation about who the new teacher would be
2
: the taking of a big risk in business in hopes of making a big profit

Legal Definition

speculation

noun
spec·​u·​la·​tion ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce speculation (audio)
: an act or instance of speculating: as
a
: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain
b
: a transaction involving such speculation

More from Merriam-Webster on speculation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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