Theses

Thesis \The"sis\, n.; pl. {Theses}. [L., fr. Gr. ?, fr. ? to
   place, set. See {Do}, and cf. {Anathema}, {Apothecary},
   {Epithet}, {Hypothesis}, {Parenthesis}, {Theme}, {Tick} a
   cover.]
   1. A position or proposition which a person advances and
      offers to maintain, or which is actually maintained by
      argument.
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   2. Hence, an essay or dissertation written upon specific or
      definite theme; especially, an essay presented by a
      candidate for a diploma or degree.
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            I told them of the grave, becoming, and sublime
            deportment they should assume upon this mystical
            occasion, and read them two homilies and a thesis of
            my own composing, to prepare them.    --Goldsmith.
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   3. (Logic) An affirmation, or distinction from a supposition
      or hypothesis.
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   4. (Mus.) The accented part of the measure, expressed by the
      downward beat; -- the opposite of arsis.
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   5. (Pros.)
      (a) The depression of the voice in pronouncing the
          syllables of a word.
      (b) The part of the foot upon which such a depression
          falls.
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