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.
2. Hence, an essay or dissertation written upon
specific or definite theme; especially, an essay presented by a candidate
for a diploma or degree.
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.
3. (Logic) An affirmation, or distinction
from a supposition or hypothesis.
4. (Mus.) The accented part of the measure,
expressed by the downward beat; -- the opposite of arsis.
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.