hypothesis

The definition of a hypothesis is an unproven theory or statement.

(noun)

An example of hypothesis is the theory of evolution.

YourDictionary definition and usage example. Copyright © 2013 by LoveToKnow Corp.

See hypothesis in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. hypotheses

an unproved theory, proposition, supposition, etc. tentatively accepted to explain certain facts or () to provide a basis for further investigation, argument, etc.

Origin: Gr, groundwork, foundation, supposition < hypotithenai, to place under < hypo-, under + tithenai, to place: see hypo- & do

See hypothesis in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. hy·poth·e·ses (-sēzˌ)
  1. A tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.
  2. Something taken to be true for the purpose of argument or investigation; an assumption.
  3. The antecedent of a conditional statement.

Origin:

Origin: Latin, subject for a speech

Origin: , from Greek hupothesis, proposal, supposition

Origin: , from hupotithenai, hupothe-, to suppose

Origin: : hupo-, hypo-

Origin: + tithenai, to place; see dhē- in Indo-European roots

.

Learn more about hypothesis

Related Articles

link/cite print suggestion box