n. pl. the·ses (-sēz) 1. A proposition that is maintained by argument. 2. A dissertation advancing an original point of view as a result of research, especially as a requirement for an academic degree. 3. A hypothetical proposition, especially one put forth without proof. 4. The first stage of the Hegelian dialectic process. 5. a. The long or accented part of a metrical foot, especially in quantitative verse. b. The unaccented or short part of a metrical foot, especially in accentual verse. 6. Music The accented section of a measure. [Latin, from Greek, from tithenai, to put; see dhē- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots. Senses 5 and 6, Middle English, from Late Latin, lowering of the voice, from Greek, downbeat.] |
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