n. a proposal intended to explain certain facts or observations

n. a tentative theory about the natural world; a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena; "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"

n. (logic) a proposition that is accepted as true in order to provide a basis for logical reasoning

n. a message expressing an opinion based on incomplete evidence

n. a statement made about the future

n. (logic) a proposition that is accepted as true in order to provide a basis for logical reasoning

n. a statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawn; "on the assumption that he has been injured we can infer that he will not to play"

n. an idea accepted as a demonstrable truth

n. a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school

n. an orientation that characterizes the thinking of a group or nation

n. a rationalized mental attitude