All 5 Uses

hypothesis
in
Flowers for Algernon -- Novel
(Edited)

If we claim too much now, our whole hypothesis will come under fire.
p. 68.6

hypothesis = idea to be tested
How does Algernon's regression affect the basic hypothesis of the experiment?
p. 241.7
I present it to you as a hypothesis: Intelligence without the ability to give and receive affection leads to mental and moral breakdown, to neurosis, and possibly even psychosis.
p. 249.7

hypothesis = unproven idea
The hypothesis here proved may be described most simply in the following terms: Artificially-induced intelligence deteriorates at a rate of time directly proportional to the quantity of the increase.
p. 255.1 *

hypothesis = theory or belief (based upon limited evidence)
It means that the flaw is central and brings the entire hypothesis into question.
p. 257.6

hypothesis = unproven theory or idea

Definitions:

(1) (hypothesis as in: a study to test her hypothesis)
a seemingly reasonable, but unproven idea or explanation based upon known facts

In casual conversation, theory is a synonym for hypothesis, but a scientist would say that a hypothesis needs to pass rigorous tests before it could be accepted as a theory.
(2) (hypothesis as in: assume as a working hypothesis)
something that may or may not be true, but is temporarily treated as true to advance a discussion or to further investigation

This sense of hypothesis is typically seen in the form, hypothetical, or hypothetically.
(3) (meaning too rare to warrant focus)