adv. [f. prec. + -LY2.] In a theoretic or theoretical manner.
a. In the way of or by means of theory: in relation to theory. (In quot. 1701 perh. = contemplatively, speculatively.)
1701. Norris, Ideal World, I. v. 235. As they [the Divine Ideas] are thus independent upon the existence of things in nature, so also upon all mind or understanding…, that is, I mean, as conceptive, or theoretically considered.
1748. Hartley, Obser. Man, I. iii. 343. This lessens the Difference theoretically also.
1831. Brewster, Optics, xxxiii. § 163. 274. Huygens … investigated the subject, both experimentally and theoretically.
1886. Manch. Exam., 6 Jan., 3/1. Questions which are theoretically interesting to thoughtful people and practically interesting to every one.
b. According to theory, in theory, ideally; hypothetically (as opp. to actually).
1790. C. C. Pinckney, in Sparks, Corr. Amer. Rev., IV. 341. One great advantage, that might not attend a Constitution theoretically perfect.
1853. Lytton, My Novel, III. ix. The position was not quite so pleasant as, theoretically, he had deemed it.
1875. Whitney, Life Lang., iv. 67. The possible number of human articulations is theoretically infinite.
