theoretical definition - Dictionary

Dictionary

Thesaurus

Translations

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

See pronunciation key

Search for "theoreti..." in all of MSN Encarta

E-mail this entry

Blog about this entry on MSN Spaces

Download the MSN Encarta Right-Click Dictionary

theoretical

the·o·ret·i·cal [ th ə réttik'l ] or the·o·ret·ic [ th ə réttik ]

adjective

Definition:

1. based on theory: about, involving, or based on theory

2. dealing with theory: dealing with theory or speculation rather than practical applications

3. speculative: inclined to or skilled in speculative contemplation or theorizing

4. hypothetical: existing only in theory

[Early 17th century. < late Latin theoreticus< Greek theoretikos< theōrētos "observable" < theorein "look at"]

the·o·ret·i·cal·ly adverb

Also on Encarta

•	Important Notice: MSN Encarta to be discontinued. Learn more.

•	10 tips for building your English vocabulary

•	Alternatives to the M.B.A.

•	GPS for students

•	Making the right college choice

•	Presidential Myths Quiz

•

Coffee break: Recharge your brain

Our Partners

•	ApplyWise Online College Admissions Counseling

•	The Princeton Review

•

Tutor.com: Live Help When You Get Stuck

Also on MSN

•	Peek into the world of parasites on Animal Planet

•	Mom's Homeroom: Learn ways to help your kid succeed in school

•	MSN Shopping: Best books for the season

•	MSN Careers: Nail that job interview

•

Today's news on MSNBC


Shopping