theoretical

[ thee-uh-ret-i-kuhl ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or consisting in theory; not practical ( applied ).
2. existing only in theory; hypothetical.
3. given to, forming, or dealing with theories; speculative.

theoretical

/ ˌθɪəˈrɛtɪkəl; ˌθɪəˈrɛtɪk /

adjective

1. of or based on theory
2. lacking practical application or actual existence; hypothetical
3. using or dealing in theory; impractical

Derived Forms

• ˌtheoˈretically, adverb

Other Words From

• the·o·ret·i·cal·ly adverb
• an·ti·the·o·ret·i·cal adjective
• non·the·o·ret·ic adjective
• non·the·o·ret·i·cal adjective
• un·the·o·ret·ic adjective
• un·the·o·ret·i·cal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of theoretical¹

First recorded in 1610–20; theoretic, from Late Latin theōrēticus, from Greek theōrētikós, equivalent to theōrēt(ós) “to be seen” (verbal adjective derived from theōreîn “to view”) + -ikos -ic; -al ¹

Example Sentences

A theoretical astrophysicist from the University of Kansas may have solved a nearly two-decade-old mystery over the origins of an unusual "zebra" pattern seen in high-frequency radio pulses from the Crab Nebula.

From Science Daily

Now, a study presents a new theoretical model capable of overcoming the limitations of previous methodologies to understand how water behaves in extreme conditions.

From Science Daily

"The combination of experimental results and theoretical insights provides a comprehensive picture of how magnetic fields can enhance catalytic performance," added Li, "This can serve as guidance when designing new catalysts in the future."

From Science Daily

The rising threat is theoretical, until it isn’t.

From Salon

“An extreme abortion ban is not theoretical to us,” said Lisa Turner, who guides a political action committee promoting Democratic candidates and causes.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abstract
• academic
• analytical
• imaginative
• intellectual
• logical
• metaphysical
• philosophical
• speculative
• vague