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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The team also theorizes that this star has not yet begun to burn hydrogen in its core, the process that defines the main sequence lifetime of a star. Robert Lea, Space.com, 21 July 2025 Astronomers theorize that kilonovae may also occur when a neutron star collides with a black hole. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 17 July 2025 Bruner theorizes the worms and their eggs are being moved through contaminated soil, mulch and compost. Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 16 July 2025 People have theorized that either the group that fought Mittank a few nights back or a private criminal enterprise was trying to capture or kill him. Caroline Blair, People.com, 9 July 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 25 Jul. 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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