hypothesize

verb

hy·​poth·​e·​size hī-ˈpä-thə-ˌsīz How to pronounce hypothesize (audio)
hypothesized; hypothesizing
Synonyms of hypothesizenext

transitive verb

: to adopt as a hypothesis

Examples of hypothesize in a Sentence

Psychologists hypothesized that his odd behavior was caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. if we hypothesize that current population trends continue for the next 50 years
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Researchers hypothesize that the ancient mother bees mixed dirt with their saliva to construct these minuscule chambers, each smaller than the eraser on a pencil. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 17 Dec. 2025 Sanders and Graham hypothesized that Austen had systemic lupus erythematosus, a condition commonly associated with joint problems, facial skin changes, fever and fatigue. Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 12 Dec. 2025 Fans have noted the similarity of their faces, and hypothesized that EsDeeKid may be Chalamet's alter ego. Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 12 Dec. 2025 Many researchers also hypothesize that aviation trailblazer Earhart did not crash her plane at sea, but instead landed and was stranded on Nikumaroro Island, later perishing there. Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 10 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hypothesize

Word History

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of hypothesize was in 1738

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hypothesize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothesize. Accessed 18 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

hypothesize

verb
hy·​poth·​e·​size hī-ˈpäth-ə-ˌsīz How to pronounce hypothesize (audio)
hypothesized; hypothesizing
1
: to make a hypothesis
2
: to adopt as a hypothesis
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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