http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=theory
the·o·ry ( P ) Pronunciation Key (th-r, thîr) n. pl. the·o·ries
1. A set of statements or principles devised to explain a group of facts or phenomena, especially one that has been repeatedly tested or is widely accepted and can be used to make predictions about natural phenomena.
2. The branch of a science or art consisting of its explanatory statements, accepted principles, and methods of analysis, as opposed to practice: a fine musician who had never studied theory.
3. A set of theorems that constitute a systematic view of a branch of mathematics.
4. Abstract reasoning; speculation: a decision based on experience rather than theory.
5. A belief or principle that guides action or assists comprehension or judgment: staked out the house on the theory that criminals usually return to the scene of the crime.
6. An assumption based on limited information or knowledge; a conjecture.
As you can see my definition best fits with the first and most widely held view until about 100+ years or so. Your view best fits with the more modern number 4-abstract reasoning and speculation-based on experience.
This "new approach" to theory has only recently gained acceptance (within the last hundred years or so). Quite frankly to speculate about something and call it a theory is idiotic. Even the definitions are idiotic (#1 and #4 are opposites). The circle has indeed become the square.
As you can see my definition best fits with the first and most widely held view until about 100+ years or so.
Sure, if you only use half the definition.
You assume that "tested" only means tested in a laboratory. "Tested" also encompasses application of the abstract theory to the real-world evidence.