presume
UK: prɪˈzjuːm | US: prɪˈzuːm
vt. to suppose something to be true without proof
vt. to take liberties or act overconfidently
vt. (law) to accept as true until proven otherwise
The word "presume" originates from Latin praesumere ("to take beforehand"), combining prae- (before) and sumere (to take). It entered Middle English via Old French presumer, initially meaning "to dare" or "venture." Over time, it evolved to imply taking something for granted or acting without justification, reflecting a blend of confidence and audacity. The legal sense ("accept as true provisionally") emerged later, aligning with the idea of taking a stance before full evidence is presented.
Don't presume to know my thoughts without asking.
The court will presume innocence until guilt is proven.
She presumed he’d agree, but he surprised her.
It’s rude to presume upon someone’s generosity.
Scientists presume the phenomenon is linked to climate change.