theorize

verb

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

intransitive verb

: to form a theory : speculate

transitive verb

1
: to form a theory about
2
: to propose as a theory
theorization
ˌthē-ə-rə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce theorize (audio)
ˌthir-ə-
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
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.
Some researchers have theorized that these curious small galaxies could harbor black holes that are buried in thick shrouds of cosmic dust. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 6 July 2026 The other hypothesis theorizes supermassive black hole seeds came from a large gas cloud collapsing, due to its large mass and strong gravity, into a black hole. — Mary Ogborn, The Conversation, 25 June 2026 Yet others have theorized that the MSG buzz could be an elaborate smoke screen to throw off attention to the couple's real wedding plans. — CBS News, 27 June 2026 Some researchers theorize that increasing brain creatine can protect neurons and improve cognition. — Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 3 July 2026 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

Rhymes for theorize

See All Rhymes for theorize

Browse Nearby Words

theorization
theorize
theorizer
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Cite this Entry

“Theorize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorize. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for theorize

Nglish: Translation of theorize for Spanish Speakers

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