presumption

[ pri-zuhmp-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of presuming. presuming.
2. assumption of something as true.
3. belief on reasonable grounds or probable evidence.
4. something that is presumed; an assumption.
5. a ground or reason for presuming presuming or believing.
6. Law. an inference required or permitted by law as to the existence of one fact from proof of the existence of other facts.
7. an assumption, often not fully established, that is taken for granted in some piece of reasoning.
8. unwarrantable, unbecoming, or impertinent boldness.

   Synonyms: gall, arrogance, effrontery, audacity

presumption

/ prɪˈzʌmpʃən /

noun

1. the act of presuming
2. bold or insolent behaviour or manners
3. a belief or assumption based on reasonable evidence
4. a ground or basis on which to presume
5. law an inference of the truth of a fact from other facts proved, admitted, or judicially noticed

Other Words From

• over·pre·sumption noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of presumption¹

1175–1225; Middle English: effrontery, supposition < Latin praesūmptiōn- (stem of praesūmptiō ) anticipation, supposition, Late Latin: presumptuousness, equivalent to praesūmpt ( us ) (past participle of praesūmere to undertake beforehand; presume ) + -iōn- -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of presumption¹

C13: via Old French from Latin praesumptiō a using in advance, anticipation, from praesūmere to take beforehand; see presume

Example Sentences

“We ask the public to respect the presumption of innocence and to refrain from speculation as we work to gather all relevant facts.”

From Los Angeles Times

The most hardline migration-sceptics argue that the deception goes even deeper – they claim that it is the result of a fundamental presumption baked into the political system in favour of large-scale migration.

From BBC

The Scottish government has previously said it had a "presumption against" new oil and gas exploration.

From BBC

Days later, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced reforms aimed at improving police accountability, one of which involves a presumption of anonymity for firearms officers charged with criminal offences after police shootings.

From BBC

“The decision reflects a thorough evaluation of all relevant factors, and consistent with the presumption of innocence, his release is both fair and justified.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assumption
• likelihood
• premise
• supposition
• suspicion