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speculation
noun
spec·u·la·tion
ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən
: an act or instance of speculating: such as
a
: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain
b
: a transaction involving such speculation
Synonyms
Examples of speculation in a Sentence
He dismissed their theories as mere speculation.
The book is just a lot of idle speculation about the future.
Her speculations leave many questions unanswered.
He lost everything in foolish land speculation.
Recent Examples on the Web
News on the luxury grapevine lifted shares of Burberry and EssilorLuxottica yesterday amid speculation that two major industry deals are underway.
—Prarthana Prakash, Fortune Europe, 5 Nov. 2024
The news of Beau’s death, along with, now, the heartbreaking news of Jackie’s arrest in connection with his death has overwhelmed us with grief and speculation and confusion.
—Vicki Gerdes / Forum News Service, Twin Cities, 4 Nov. 2024
McCoy says his team’s approach remains grounded in real-time data from election officials, insulating them from speculation and unverified reports.
—Josh Rottenberg, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2024
Topline Officials for former President Donald Trump’s campaign are considering adding Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to a potential Trump administration, according to the Washington Post, amid speculation in recent months over who may serve in Trump’s second term if he’s elected.
—Ty Roush, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for speculation
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Word History
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of speculation was
in the 14th century
Phrases Containing speculation
Dictionary Entries Near speculation
Cite this Entry
“Speculation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speculation. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
speculation
noun
spec·u·la·tion
ˌspek-yə-ˈlā-shən
1
: thoughts or guesses about something
much speculation about who the new teacher would be
2
: the taking of a big risk in business in hopes of making a big profit
Legal Definition
speculation
noun
spec·u·la·tion
ˌspe-kyə-ˈlā-shən
: an act or instance of speculating: as
a
: assumption of unusual business risk in hopes of obtaining commensurate gain
b
: a transaction involving such speculation
More from Merriam-Webster on speculation
Nglish: Translation of speculation for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of speculation for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about speculation
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