presumptive
presumptive Lexical Profile
presumptive Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Of the nature of a presumption; presumed in the absence of further information or until proven otherwise.
"Having secured a majority of the delegates, she became the party's presumptive nominee weeks before the convention."
Giving reasonable grounds for presumption or belief; warranting an inference.
"Possession of the stolen documents was treated by the court as presumptive evidence of guilt."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'presumptive' (based on probability or legal presumption, as in 'presumptive nominee') with 'presumptuous' (overstepping bounds in an arrogant or overly familiar way).
• Rhymes for presumptive
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 15th century from Middle French présomptif, from Late Latin praesumptivus, derived from Latin praesumere ('to take in advance' or 'to anticipate').