theory, n.1
Pronunciation: /ˈθiːərɪ/
Forms: Also 16 -ie, -ee.
Etymology: < late Latin theōria (Jerome in Ezech. xii. xl. 4), < Greek θεωρία a looking at, viewing,
contemplation, speculation, theory, also a sight, a spectacle, abstr. n. < θεωρός ( < *θεαορός) spectator, looker
on, < stem θεα- of θεᾶσθαι to look on, view, contemplate. In mod. use probably < medieval Latin translation of
Aristotle. Compare Italian teoria (Florio 1598 theoría), French théorie (15.. in Godefroy Compl.).(Show Less)
†1. A sight, a spectacle. Obs. rare.
1605 L. Andrewes 96 Serm.: Passion (1631) 365 Saint Luke..calleth the Passion θεωρίαν a Theory or Sight...
Of our blessed Saviour's whole life or death, there is no part but is a Theorie of it selfe, well worthie our looking
on.
†2. Mental view, contemplation. Obs.
[1598 J. Florio Worlde of Wordes, Theoria, contemplation, deepe studie, a sight or beholding.]
1611 R. Cotgrave Dict. French & Eng. Tongues, Theorie, theorie, contemplation, deepe studie; a sight, or
beholding, speculation.
1643 Sir T. Browne Relig. Medicii. §45 Nor can I thinke I have the true Theory of death when I contemplate a
skull, or behold a Skeleton with those vulgar imaginations it casts upon us.
1646 Sir T. Browne Pseudodoxia Epidemicavii. xix. 385 As they encrease the hatred of vice in some, so doe
they enlarge the theory of wickednesse in all.
1653 W. Harvey Anat. Exercitations Pref. ⁋ v, All their theory and contemplation (which they count Science)
represents nothing but waking mens dreams, and sick mens phrensies.
1710 J. Norris Treat. Christian Prudence ii. 65 Speculative Knowledge contemplates Truth for itself, and
accordingly stops and rests in the Contemplation of it, which is what we commonly call Theory.