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Definition of speculate

speculate

/ˈspɛkjəleɪt/
spec · u · late
Adverb:speculatively
•
Adjective:speculative
•
Past Simple:speculated
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Past Participle:speculated
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Present Participle:speculating
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speculate Lexical Profile

speculate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To form a theory or conjecture about a subject without firm evidence.

Example

"Historians continue to speculate about the exact reasons why the ancient settlement was abandoned."

2

To invest in stocks, property, or other ventures in the hope of gain but with the risk of loss.

Example

"Several investors chose to speculate in emerging technology startups despite the volatile market."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for speculate

• Nearby Words

spectrometer
spectroscope
spectrum
speculate
speculation
speculative
speculatively

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin speculātus, the past participle of speculārī ('to spy out, watch, or examine'), derived from specula ('watchtower'), from specere ('to look at').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Speculate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/speculate
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