theoretical

adjective

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-kəl How to pronounce theoretical (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-kəl
variants or less commonly theoretic
ˌthē-ə-ˈre-tik How to pronounce theoretical (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-tik
1
: existing only in theory : hypothetical
gave as an example a theoretical situation
2
a
: relating to or having the character of theory : abstract
b
: confined to theory or speculation often in contrast to practical applications : speculative
theoretical physics
3
: given to or skilled in theorizing
a brilliant theoretical physicist

Examples of theoretical in a Sentence

On a theoretical level, hiring more people seems logical. The idea is purely theoretical at this point. The danger is more than just a theoretical possibility.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Despite the theoretical complexity of inventory forecasting, practical solutions are achievable. Suvarna Krishnan, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024 Various theoretical, even divergent, details have been posited regarding the project — a period vampire thriller, a helicopter action thriller — but insiders maintain that nothing has come close to nailing Nolan’s real idea. Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Nov. 2024 The question sounds theoretical and unrealistic, an opportunity that could never happen. Michael Loria, USA TODAY, 10 Nov. 2024 The commentary also misled readers by suggesting that Measure BB is unnecessary because a theoretical private solution might someday offer sand replenishment at a lower cost than the USACE project. Cameron Cosgrove, Orange County Register, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for theoretical 

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin theoreticus, from Greek theōrētikos, from theōrein to look at

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretical was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near theoretical

Cite this Entry

“Theoretical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretical. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

theoretical

adjective
the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal ˌthē-ə-ˈret-i-kəl How to pronounce theoretical (audio)
ˌthi(-ə)r-ˈet-
variants also theoretic
1
a
: relating to or having the character of theory : abstract
b
: limited to theory or speculation : speculative
theoretical physics
2
: existing only in theory : hypothetical
a theoretical situation
theoretically
-i-k(ə-)lē
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on theoretical

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