The formal scientific definition of "theory" is quite different from the everyday meaning of the word. It refers to a comprehensive explanation of some aspect of nature that is supported by a vast body of …

As Kenneth R. Miller, a cell biologist at Brown University, has said, a theory "doesn’t mean a hunch or a guess. A theory is a system of explanations that ties together a whole bunch of facts.

a formal statement of the rules on which a subject of study is based or of ideas that are suggested to explain a fact or event or, more generally, an opinion or explanation: economic theory scientific …

In science, an explanation or model that covers a substantial group of occurrences in nature and has been confirmed by a substantial number of experiments and observations. A theory is more general …

THEORY meaning: 1 : an idea or set of ideas that is intended to explain facts or events; 2 : an idea that is suggested or presented as possibly true but that is not known or proven to be true

Definition of theory noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

A theory is a formal idea or set of ideas that is intended to explain something. Marx produced a new theory about historical change based upon conflict between competing groups.

A theory is a well-substantiated explanation or framework that is supported by evidence and reasoning, and seeks to understand and explain a phenomenon or set of phenomena.

The branch of a science or art consisting of its explanatory statements, accepted principles, and methods of analysis, as opposed to practice: a fine musician who had never studied theory.

theory is of multiple origins. Partly a borrowing from French. Partly a borrowing from Latin. Etymons: French theorie; Latin theoria.