theory
theory definition
theo·ry (t̸hē′ə rē, t̸hir′ē)
noun pl. theories -·ries
- Obsolete a mental viewing; contemplation
- a speculative idea or plan as to how something might be done
- a systematic statement of principles involved the theory of equations in mathematics
- a formulation of apparent relationships or underlying principles of certain observed phenomena which has been verified to some degree
- that branch of an art or science consisting in a knowledge of its principles and methods rather than in its practice; pure, as opposed to applied, science, etc.
- popularly a mere conjecture, or guess
Etymology: < Fr or LL: Fr théorie < LL theoria < Gr theōria, a looking at, contemplation, speculation, theory < theōrein: see theorem
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