theory

Definition

A description of an event or system that is considered to be accurate.

Etymology

From Middle French théorie, from Late Latin theōria, from Ancient Greek θεωρία (theōría, “contemplation, divine perspective, speculation, a looking at, a seeking”), from θεωρέω (theōréō, “I look at, view, see, consider, examine”), from θεωρός (theōrós, “spectator”), from θέα (théa, “view, perspective, sight”) + ὁράω (horáō, “I see, look”) [i. e. θέαν ὁράω (théan horáō, “see, look at a view; survey + genitive”)].

Example Sentences

• "As they encrease the hatred of vice in some, so doe they enlarge the theory of wickednesse in all."
• "In its most proper acceptation, theory means the completed result of philosophical induction from experience."
• "Does this mean, then, that there can be no such thing as a theory of literature?"

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