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.
That’s owing to the European L1e category, where the 28-mph limit is part of the vehicle's legal classification rather than a reflection of what its electric motor could theoretically deliver. — New Atlas, 28 Oct. 2026 Since radio waves travel at close to the speed of light, a signal could theoretically cover distances equivalent to the planet's circumference several times in a single second. — Micah Hanks, Space.com, 27 Oct. 2026 Anthropic’s research on actual AI use shows a gap between what models might theoretically do and what people actually delegate to them. — Gleb Tsipursky, Washington Post, 27 Oct. 2026 Fewer proteins means fewer targets for the antibodies that eventually cause neurotoxins to lose effectiveness, Marmur told Real Self, which could theoretically extend how long results hold. — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 26 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 1 Nov. 2026.

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