speculate

 
Pronunciation: /ˈspɛkjʊleɪt/

verb

[no object]
  • 1form a theory or conjecture about a subject without firm evidence: my colleagues speculate about my private life [with clause]: observers speculated that the authorities wished to improve their image
  • 2invest in stocks, property, or other ventures in the hope of gain but with the risk of loss: he didn’t look as though he had the money to speculate in shares

Derivatives

speculator

noun

Origin:

late 16th century: from Latin speculat- 'observed from a vantage point', from the verb speculari, from specula 'watchtower', from specere 'to look'