Speculative Masonry

English

Etymology

From the belief that Freemasonry originated as an intellectual or “speculative” derivative of the ancient precepts of practical masonry.

Proper noun

Speculative Masonry

1. (archaic) Freemasonry, as distinct from masonry in its ordinary sense relating to construction.

   Coordinate term: Operative Masonry

   • 1875 September 18, “Freemasonry—An Advancive Science”, in The Freemason’s Chronicle, volume 2, number 38, page 180:

     The whole scope and design of Speculative Masonry is to produce advancement in morality and virtue.