theorize

American  

[thee-uh-rahyz, theer-ahyz] / ˈθi əˌraɪz, ˈθɪər aɪz /

especially British, theorise

verb (used without object)

theorized, theorizing

1. to form a theory or theories.

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verb (used with object)

theorized, theorizing

1. to form a theory or theories about.

theorize British  

/ ˈθɪəˌraɪz /

verb

1. (intr) to produce or use theories; speculate

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Other Word Forms

• overtheorization noun
• overtheorize verb (used without object)
• theorization noun
• theorizer noun

Etymology

Origin of theorize

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

Example Sentences

It was also, as Mr. Warden theorized, history’s first “inside to outside” war.

From The Wall Street Journal

Here he is as arresting theorizing about the origins of “The Goon Show,” which he traces to the trauma of World War II, as he is contemplating the quality of Liza Minnelli’s eyelashes.

From The Wall Street Journal

Others theorized that Epstein was spelling incorrectly on purpose.

From The Wall Street Journal

Some theorize that women more effectively cultivated their alone time during the pandemic, choosing to develop new skills or prioritize self-care.

From Salon

However, Kluh said she theorizes the Aedes aegypti might not have completely gone into hibernation during the winter and were ready to pounce at the first sign of warm temperatures.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• speculate