Definitions

hypothesis

[hahy-poth-uh-sis, hi-] / haɪˈpɒθ ə sɪs, hɪ- /

NOUN

theory

Synonyms

STRONGEST

assumption axiom conclusion conjecture explanation guess inference interpretation premise proposition rationale supposition theorem thesis

STRONG

antecedent assignment attribution basis belief condition data deduction demonstration derivation foundation ground layout lemma philosophy plan position postulate presupposition principle proposal reason scheme speculation suggestion surmise system term

WEAK

apriority shot in the dark starting point tentative law

Antonyms

STRONGEST

fact proof reality truth

WEAK

calcualtion measurement

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That’s the hypothesis of one of the world’s shrewdest and most respected analysts of geopolitics and energy, Cambridge University political economy professor Helen Thompson.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 11, 2026

Subject lines include “Recognizing the need for fasting,” “Mice blood age affects Alzheimer’s brain changes,” and “A casual hypothesis about epigenetics.”

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

The biggest flaw in the Hegelian viewpoint about supposedly great men is that his entire hypothesis about an unfolding historical process is flat wrong.

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

These types of questions often involve nuance, with multiple factors influencing whether a hypothesis is supported.

From Science Daily • Mar. 17, 2026

Finally, in 1543, a quite different hypothesis to explain the apparent motion of the planets was published by a Polish Catholic cleric named Nicholas Copernicus.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan

Vocabulary lists containing hypothesis

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 1

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

100 Top "SAT" Words

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!