theorize

[ thee-uh-rahyz, theer-ahyz ]

verb (used without object)

, the·o·rized, the·o·riz·ing.

1. to form a theory or theories.

verb (used with object)

, the·o·rized, the·o·riz·ing.

1. to form a theory or theories about.

theorize

/ ˈθɪəˌraɪz /

verb

1. intr to produce or use theories; speculate

Derived Forms

• ˈtheoˌrizer, noun
• ˌtheoriˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• theo·ri·zation noun
• theo·rizer noun
• over·theo·ri·zation noun
• over·theo·rize verb (used without object) overtheorized overtheorizing

Word History and Origins

Origin of theorize¹

From the Medieval Latin word theōrizāre, dating back to 1630–40. See theory, -ize

Example Sentences

And because it’s socially acceptable for women to get work done, some even theorize that having Instagram Face denotes success and upward mobility.

From Slate

Experts in audio engineering and acoustics theorize about how the sound could have traveled so far.

From Los Angeles Times

Stern came next, and left others to theorize why he wouldn’t state the obvious when it came to West and the logo.

From Los Angeles Times

When they do attack, it is probably because they mistake the human for prey such as a seal or sea lion, scientists theorize.

From Los Angeles Times

The researchers theorize that the permafrost has started to thaw due to these developments, causing orange streams that have lower pH and higher concentrations of iron, sulfate and trace metals.

From Salon

Related Words

• speculate