English · Science & Technology
hypothesis
/haɪˈpɒθ.ə.sɪs/
[/haɪˈpɒθ.ə.sɪs/]
testable idea
Advancednoun
Definition
A proposed explanation for something that can be tested through observation or experiment.
Example
Her hypothesis was that plants near the window would grow faster than those in the dark corner.
Her hypothesis was that plants near the window would grow faster than those in the dark corner.
Etymology
From Greek 'hypothesis' (foundation, supposition), from 'hypo-' (under) plus 'thesis' (placing).
How & Where It’s Used
A starting point for research that must be tested before becoming a theory.