theoretical

adjective

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-kəl How to pronounce theoretical (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-kəl
variants or less commonly theoretic
ˌthē-ə-ˈre-tik How to pronounce theoretical (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-tik
1
: existing only in theory : hypothetical
gave as an example a theoretical situation
2
a
: relating to or having the character of theory : abstract
b
: confined to theory or speculation often in contrast to practical applications : speculative
theoretical physics
3
: given to or skilled in theorizing
a brilliant theoretical physicist

Examples of theoretical in a Sentence

On a theoretical level, hiring more people seems logical. The idea is purely theoretical at this point. The danger is more than just a theoretical possibility.
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.
These frameworks are not theoretical, as they are based on real-world leadership challenges and offer actionable tools leaders can apply immediately. Tony Gambill, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025 The Athletic's Jim Bowden recently outlined a theoretical deal in which the Cardinals would trade Helsley, Arenado, and cash to the Detroit Tigers to land superstar prospect Kevin McGonigle. Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025 This phrase has a clear intent and a violent legacy, and its impact is not theoretical. Lisa Katz, New York Daily News, 22 June 2025 Researchers noted the positive effects of ecstatic epilepsy and synthesized fifty-three theoretical models of delusion. Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harpers Magazine, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for theoretical

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin theoreticus, from Greek theōrētikos, from theōrein to look at

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretical was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Theoretical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretical. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

theoretical

adjective
the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal ˌthē-ə-ˈret-i-kəl How to pronounce theoretical (audio)
ˌthi(-ə)r-ˈet-
variants also theoretic
1
a
: relating to or having the character of theory : abstract
b
: limited to theory or speculation : speculative
theoretical physics
2
: existing only in theory : hypothetical
a theoretical situation
theoretically
-i-k(ə-)lē
adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on theoretical

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