Plate tectonics
The theory that Earth’s lithosphere consists of multiple interlocking plates that change in size and move laterally with respect to each other. Ultimately driven by convection currents in the mantle, and dominated by the processes of seafloor spreading and subduction, plate tectonic processes cause the formation of the Earth's major surface features, its ocean basins, land, and mountain ranges.
Note: Definition is a work in progress.

Tectonic
Pertaining to large-scale structural deformation of the Earth’s surface (or the surface of other planets). Large-scale structures that form as a result of deformation include folds, domes, basins and faults.
Note: Definition is a work in progress.

Theory
A general explanation of a characteristic of nature consistently supported by observation or experiment.
Note: Definition is a work in progress..

Hypothesis
A tentative explanation and testable explanation of a characteristic of nature consistently supported by observation or experiment.
Note: For example, we might hypothesize that ..., and then conduct an investigation or court proceedings to show that our hypothesis is consistent and possible, or to find out that our hypothesis cannot be true. If our hypothesis is ok, that concept might be elevated to the status of theory. If out hypothesis is disproven, then we need to propose a new hypothesis and go through the testing processs again, until we find a consistent concept. Like ..., we can only work with the best concept possible at the time, we are rarely 100% sure about some things.

Everyday conjecture, i.e. not up to the standards of a scientific "theory"
"I have a theory about who killed Colonel Mustard in the Conservatory."
Note: Definition is a work in progress..