Definition Definition

hypothesis - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'hypothesis' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Hypothesis [ n.]
- A supposition; a proposition or principle which is supposed or taken for granted, in order to draw a conclusion or inference for proof of the point in question; something not proved, but assumed for the purpose of argument, or to account for a fact or an occurrence; as, the hypothesis that head winds detain an overdue steamer.
- A tentative theory or supposition provisionally adopted to explain certain facts, and to guide in the investigation of others; hence, frequently called a working hypothesis.

Meaning of 'hypothesis' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . hypothesis [ n]
Meaning (1):
- a tentative insight into the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena
Example in sentence:
  • a scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory;
  • he proposed a fresh theory of alkalis that later was accepted in chemical practices