theoretically

adverb

the·​o·​ret·​i·​cal·​ly ˌthē-ə-ˈre-ti-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce theoretically (audio)
ˌthir-ˈe-ti-
1
: according to an ideal or assumed set of facts or principles : in theory
2
: in a theoretical way

Examples of theoretically in a Sentence

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.
OpenAI has hardware designed by Jony Ive that will theoretically come out. — Nilay Patel, The Verge, 8 Oct. 2026 The researchers say that if the emission cone could be narrowed sufficiently to better match the absorption cone of sunlight, efficiencies approaching 43 percent could theoretically become possible. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 7 Oct. 2026 Unless Congress sets a time limit on the authorization, authority to use the legal justification to launch military strikes can theoretically span multiple administrations. — Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026 On Tuesday, Public Citizen warned that TV stations could theoretically lose their broadcast licenses for knowingly airing the ads. — Alayna Treene, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for theoretically

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1626, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of theoretically was circa 1626

Rhymes for theoretically

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Browse Nearby Words

theoretical
theoretically
theoretical reason
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Cite this Entry

“Theoretically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theoretically. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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