hypothetical

The definition of hypothetical is something that is assumed or based on theory.

(adjective)

An example of hypothetical is a plan based on something that would never happen.

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

See hypothetical in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

  1. based on, involving, or having the nature of a hypothesis; assumed; supposed
  2. given to the use of hypotheses: a hypothetical mind
  3. Logic conditional

Origin: < Gr hypothetikos (< hypothesis) + -al

noun

a hypothetical statement, idea, circumstance, etc.

Related Forms:

See hypothetical in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. Of, relating to, or based on a hypothesis: a hypothetical situation. See Synonyms at theoretical.
  2. a. Suppositional; uncertain. See Synonyms at supposed.
    b. Conditional; contingent.
noun
A hypothetical circumstance, condition, scenario, or situation: OK, let's consider this possibility then—just as a hypothetical.

Origin:

Origin: From Greek hupothetikos

Origin: , from hupothetos, placed under, supposed

Origin: , from hupotithenai, to suppose; see hypothesis

.

Related Forms:

  • hyˌpo·thetˈi·cal noun
  • hyˌpo·thetˈi·cal·ly adverb

Learn more about hypothetical

link/cite print suggestion box