<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>The formation or expression of an opinion or theory without sufficient evidence for proof.</li><li>An opinion or theory so formed or expressed; guess; speculation.</li><li><strong>Synonyms:</strong> hypothesis, theory, supposition, inference, surmise.</li><li>Obsolete: the interpretation of signs or omens.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used with object)<ul><li>To conclude or suppose from grounds or evidence insufficient to ensure reliability.</li><li><strong>Synonyms:</strong> presume, suppose, surmise.</li></ul></li><li>(used without object)<ul><li>To form conjectures.</li></ul></li></ul>