Search results
- DictionaryThe·o·ry/ˈTHirē/
noun
- 1. a supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained: "Darwin's theory of evolution"
noun. the· o· ry ˈthē-ə-rē. ˈthir-ē. plural theories. Synonyms of theory. 1. : a plausible or scientifically acceptable general principle or body of principles offered to explain phenomena. the wave theory of light. 2. a. : a belief, policy, or procedure proposed or followed as the basis of action.
Add to word list. B2. a formal statement of the rules on which a subject of study is based or of ideas that are suggested to explain a fact or event or, more generally, an opinion or explanation: economic theory. scientific theory. theory of Darwin's theory of evolution.
Theory definition: a coherent group of tested general propositions, commonly regarded as correct, that can be used as principles of explanation and prediction for a class of phenomena. See examples of THEORY used in a sentence.
A theory is a rational type of abstract thinking about a phenomenon, or the results of such thinking. The process of contemplative and rational thinking is often associated with such processes as observational study or research. Theories may be scientific, belong to a non-scientific discipline, or no discipline at all.
[countable, uncountable] a formal set of ideas that is intended to explain why something happens or exists. theory of something the theory of evolution/relativity. scientific/economic theory. The theories were tested on a sample of the population. theory about something He developed a new theory about the cause of stomach ulcers.
THEORY meaning: 1 : an idea or set of ideas that is intended to explain facts or events; 2 : an idea that is suggested or presented as possibly true but that is not known or proven to be true
