Definition of hypothesis

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hy·poth·e·sis    (h-pth-ss) KEY 

NOUN:
pl. hy·poth·e·ses  (-sz) KEY 

1. A tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.
2. Something taken to be true for the purpose of argument or investigation; an assumption.
3. The antecedent of a conditional statement.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Latin, subject for a speech, from Greek hupothesis, proposal, supposition, from hupotithenai, hupothe-, to suppose : hupo-, hypo- + tithenai, to place; see dh- in Indo-European roots