What are the meaning, origin and usage of word Conjecture?

Conjecture

Meaning

The word “conjecture” means speculation, guess or formation of an opinion based on insufficient information or evidence available. In other words, it is a guess about something based on how it seems and not on proof. The term can be used both as a noun and verb.

Origin

The term originated from the Latin conicere meaning “put together in thought” (con: “together” + iacere: “throw”). “Conjecture” entered English in the 14th century as a noun to refer to the act of interpreting omens from the signs. By the 16th century, it had acquired the meaning of speculation, which is what we follow today. It can be used as both noun and verb.

Example sentences

Conjecture about the leader’s health has grown since his conspicuous absence from the country’s Independence Day celebration.

I have never counted the number of mails, but I conjecture that there are more than 20 today.

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