presumed
UK: prɪˈzjuːmd | US: prɪˈzuːmd
adj. believed to be true without certain proof
vt. (past tense of presume) to suppose something to be true based on probability
The word "presumed" originates from Latin praesumere (prae- "before" + sumere "to take"). It entered Middle English via Old French presumer, retaining the sense of "taking something for granted in advance." The morpheme "pre-" implies prior assumption, while "sume" reflects the act of taking or accepting. Over time, it evolved to denote beliefs based on likelihood rather than certainty, with "-ed" marking its past participle form.
The presumed culprit was later proven innocent.
She presumed his silence meant agreement.
The fossil's age is presumed to be over 10,000 years.
He acted with presumed authority but had no official title.
The document's authenticity is still presumed but unverified.