01 v. i. To consider by turning a subject in the mind, and viewing it in its different aspects and relations; to meditate; to contemplate; to theori…
imp. & p. p.
Speculated; p. pr. & vb. n.
Speculating
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1.
To consider by turning a subject in the mind, and viewing it in its different aspects and relations; to meditate; to contemplate; to theorize; as, to speculate on questions in religion; to speculate on political events.“It is remarkable that persons who speculate the most boldly often conform with the most pefect quietude to the external regulations of society.” — Hawthorne.
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2.
To view subjects from certain premises given or assumed, and infer conclusions respecting them a priori.(Philos.)
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3.
To purchase with the expectation of a contingent advance in value, and a consequent sale at a profit; -- often, in a somewhat depreciative sense, of unsound or hazardous transactions; as, to speculate in coffee, in sugar, or in bank stock.(Com.)