theorize

verb

the·​o·​rize ˈthē-ə-ˌrīz How to pronounce theorize (audio)
ˈthir-ˌīz
theorized; theorizing

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
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Though such orbits have been theorized and planet-forming discs in polar alignment have been spotted, no planet had ever been caught in the act—until now. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025 There is plenty of theorizing about who will go where, but there isn’t much doubt over who will be selected first overall by the Dallas Wings. Ben Morse, CNN Money, 14 Apr. 2025 The couple theorize that the show’s creator, Tracy Oliver, drew inspiration from their love while writing the final season of the series, which follows the lives of four women in New York. Sadiba Hasan, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025 Researchers theorize that genetically modifiying even a fraction of those clutches could significantly curb overall numbers. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 10 Apr. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Theorize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorize. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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

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