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.
© Webster 1913.