[brytlea]

scientific theory To scientists, a theory provides a coherent explanation that holds true for a large number of facts and observations about the natural world. It has to be internally consistent, based upon evidence, tested against a wide range of phenomena and demonstrate problem solving.

http://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/help/glossary/(namefilter)/s

[freedumb2003]

>>scientific theory To scientists, a theory provides a coherent explanation that holds true for a large number of facts and observations about the natural world. It has to be internally consistent, based upon evidence, tested against a wide range of phenomena and demonstrate problem solving.

Pretty good summary. The implications are vast.

The important thing is to realize that there is not a hierarchy that goes from Guess to Hypothesis to Theory as with the lay use of the term “theory.” A Scientific Theory is the highest level attainable in Science. “It is just a theory” makes no sense when applied to a Scientific Theory.