Spec"u*la`tor (?), n. [L., a spy, explorer, investigator: cf. F. sp'eculateur.]

One who speculates. Specifically: (a) An observer; a contemplator; hence, a spy; a watcher.

[Obs.]

Sir T. Browne.

(b)

One who forms theories; a theorist

.

A speculator who had dared to affirm that the human soul is by nature mortal. Macaulay.

(c) Com.

One who engages in speculation; one who buys and sells goods, land, etc., with the expectation of deriving profit from fluctuations in price.

 

© Webster 1913.