theory

noun

1. a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world; an organized system of accepted knowledge that applies in a variety of circumstances to explain a specific set of phenomena

- true in fact and theory

Definition categories: thought, explanation

2. a tentative insight into the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena

- a scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory

- he proposed a fresh theory of alkalis that later was accepted in chemical practices

Similar word(s): hypothesis, possibility

Definition categories: thought, concept, conception, construct

3. a belief that can guide behavior

- the architect has a theory that more is less

- they killed him on the theory that dead men tell no tales

Definition categories: thought, belief