English · Word Candidate

presume

/pɹɪˈzjuːm/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: presumes · presuming · presumed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To be so presumptuous as (to do something) without proper authority or permission [with to (+ infinitive)].

Verb

I don't want to pretend to be an authority on this line of business, so I would never presume to tell you how to run your own company.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To assume or suggest to be true (without proof); to take for granted, to suppose.

Verb

Paw-prints in the snow allow us to presume a visit from next door's cat.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “presume” mean?

To be so presumptuous as (to do something) without proper authority or permission [with to (+ infinitive)].

Is “presume” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.