theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce theoretically (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-
1
: according to an ideal or assumed set of facts or principles : in theory
2
: in a theoretical way

Examples of theoretically in a Sentence

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.
In satellites and spacecraft, engineers could theoretically generate antennas of different lengths without carrying and deploying equivalent metal structures. — New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026 This is a subject far older than this Lean-In-era epiphany, yet New Stanford stops short at gesturing faintly in the direction of conversations that could theoretically be had. — Judy Berman, Time, 21 Oct. 2026 More projects can be evaluated, and more contractors (theoretically) can participate. — Shiva Dhawan, Forbes.com, 20 Oct. 2026 Technology improves, businesses adopt it, and jobs slowly change or disappear, theoretically while new jobs appear in other parts of the economy. — Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 20 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for theoretically

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretically was circa 1626

Rhymes for theoretically

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Browse Nearby Words

theoretical
theoretically
theoretical reason
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Cite this Entry

“Theoretically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretically. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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