scientific theory

American  

[sahy-uhn-tif-ik theer-ee, thee-uh-ree] / ˈsaɪ ənˌtɪf ɪk ˈθɪər i, ˈθi ə ri /

noun

1. a coherent group of propositions formulated to explain a group of facts or phenomena in the natural world and repeatedly confirmed through experiment or observation.

   the scientific theory of evolution.

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Usage

What is a scientific theory? A scientific theory is a well-tested, broad explanation of a natural phenomenon. In everyday life, we often use the word theory to mean a hypothesis or educated guess, but a theory in the context of science is not simply a guess—it is an explanation based on extensive and repeated experimentation. And it’s not the job of theories to become facts—they use available facts to make sense of a broad concept. Scientific theories explain some of the most familiar and complex phenomena. A few of the best-known scientific theories are the theory of gravity, the theory of evolution, and the theory of relativity.

Etymology

Origin of scientific theory

First recorded in 1755–65

Example Sentences

His conviction was based on testimony that she died from “shaken baby syndrome,” a now largely discredited scientific theory.

From Slate • Oct. 18, 2024

The NSS has written to the Welsh government requesting that new guidance be issued prohibiting the promotion or teaching of creationism as an alternative scientific theory.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2024

A new paper published in The Quarterly Review of Biology examines the question of what Darwinism is and how its nonscientific uses relate to the scientific theory of evolution.

From Science Daily • May 28, 2024

They also claim that intelligent design is a scientific theory.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 22, 2024

Like any other scientific theory, it may initially be put forward for aesthetic or metaphysical reasons, but the real test is whether it makes predictions that agree with observation.

From "A Brief History of Time: And Other Essays" by Stephen Hawking