theoretical
adjective
the·o·ret·i·cal
ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-kəl 
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-kəl
variants
or less commonly theoretic
ˌthē-ə-ˈre-tik
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
With a degree in theoretical mathematics and geophysical fluid dynamics, Kapnick saw herself as uniquely positioned to take on that challenge.
—
Diana Olick, CNBC, 31 May 2025
This recent study, which does just that, studied two theoretical Population III stars: one 13 times as massive as the sun, and one 200 times as massive.
—Robin George Andrews, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 May 2025
As physics advances, time travel edges closer to theoretical possibility.
—Dete Meserve, Space.com, 29 May 2025
Each center will have flexible funds to recruit talent, host events and pursue long-term theoretical work.
—John Drake, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretical
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Diana Olick, CNBC, 31 May 2025
This recent study, which does just that, studied two theoretical Population III stars: one 13 times as massive as the sun, and one 200 times as massive.
—Robin George Andrews, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 May 2025
As physics advances, time travel edges closer to theoretical possibility.
—Dete Meserve, Space.com, 29 May 2025
Each center will have flexible funds to recruit talent, host events and pursue long-term theoretical work.
—John Drake, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for theoretical
Cite this Entry
“Theoretical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretical. Accessed 7 Jun. 2025.
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theoretical
adjective
the·o·ret·i·cal
ˌthē-ə-ˈret-i-kəl
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
adverb
-i-k(ə-)lē
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