speculation

American  

[spek-yuh-ley-shuhn] / ˌspɛk yəˈleɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the contemplation or consideration of some subject.

   to engage in speculation on humanity's ultimate destiny.

2. a single instance or process of consideration.

3. a conclusion or opinion reached by such contemplation.

   These speculations are impossible to verify.

   Synonyms:

   hypothesis, theory, view, supposition

4. conjectural consideration of a matter; conjecture or surmise.

   a report based on speculation rather than facts.

5. engagement in business transactions involving considerable risk but offering the chance of large gains, especially trading in commodities, stocks, etc., in the hope of profit from changes in the market price.

6. a speculative commercial venture or undertaking.

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speculation British  

/ ˌspɛkjʊˈleɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of speculating

2. a supposition, theory, or opinion arrived at through speculating

3. investment involving high risk but also the possibility of high profits

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Other Word Forms

• antispeculation noun
• nonspeculation noun
• overspeculation noun
• prespeculation noun
• semispeculation noun

Etymology

Origin of speculation

1325–75; Middle English speculacioun < Late Latin speculātiōn- (stem of speculātiō ) exploration, observation. See speculate, -ion

Example Sentences

But instead of quelling the speculation, the video fueled a new wave of unfounded theories.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

Gold and silver have posted gains for four consecutive sessions, making up ground after the outbreak of the war in Iran made speculation on precious metals futures less attractive for investors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Yeah, and for what it’s worth, this is pure speculation, but my guess is this was not actually somebody close to the White House directly making the trade.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

However, the 46-year-old has distanced himself from such speculation and wants to lead Wales at Euro 2028, which they will co-host with England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

There was widespread speculation that either Woolf or Buddy Haas, Kayak’s jockey, would be signed on to ride Seabiscuit in the big race.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand

Related Words

• belief
• conjecture
• opinion
• thought