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Definitions

speculate

[spek-yuh-leyt] / ˈspɛk yəˌleɪt /
VERB
think about deeply and theorize
Synonyms
STRONGEST
contemplate figure out guess hypothesize read reflect ruminate surmise weigh wonder
STRONG
brainstorm cerebrate cogitate conjecture consider deliberate excogitate figure guesstimate meditate muse reason review scheme study suppose suspect
WEAK
beat one's brains build castles in air call it call the turn chew over dope out have a hunch hazard a guess head-trip kick around pipe-dream psych out read between lines run it up flagpole size up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disregard ignore neglect
STRONG
dismiss forget know
WEAK
abstain
VERB
gamble, risk
Synonyms
STRONG
dare hazard play plunge venture
WEAK
make book margin up play the market pour money into spec stick neck out take a chance take a flier take a fling wildcat
Antonyms
WEAK
abstain ignore neglect

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.

Some speculate that Andes virus outbreaks are increasing amid deforestation, which pushes rodents out of their natural habitats and closer to humans.

From MarketWatch • May 8, 2026

The pooled capital of small savers was loaned out to speculate on real estate.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

Thames Valley Police said a 51-year-old man from Milton Keynes remained in custody and it urged people not to speculate as to the motive.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2026

But she was the only medical professional willing to speculate with me.

From Slate • Apr. 18, 2026

He didn’t want to speculate about where Angela might have gone with the papers.

From "Found" by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Vocabulary lists containing speculate

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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Common Senses: Spec, Spect, Spic ("Look")

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The Secret Life of Bees

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!