infer

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To introduce (something) as a reasoned conclusion; to conclude by reasoning or deduction, as from premises or evidence.

   It is dangerous to infer too much from martial bluster in British politics: at the first hint of trouble, channelling Churchill is a default tactic for beleaguered leaders of all sorts.

2. 2
   verb

   To lead to (something) as a consequence; to imply.

   a. 1535, Thomas More, letter to Fryth the fyrste parte is not the proofe of the second. but rather contrarywyse the seconde inferreth well yͤ fyrst.

3. 3
   verb

   To cause, inflict (something) upon or to someone.

   faire Serena[…]fled fast away, afeard / Of villany to be to her inferd[…].

4. 4
   verb

   To introduce (a subject) in speaking, writing etc.; to bring in, to adduce.

   Full well hath Clifford played the orator, / Inferring arguments of mighty force.

5. 5
   verb

   believe to be the case

6. 6
   verb

   guess correctly

7. 7
   verb

   reason by deduction

8. 8
   verb

   conclude by reasoning

Etymology

From Latin inferō, from Latin in- (“in, at, on; into”) + Latin ferō (“bear, carry; suffer”) (cognate to Old English beran, whence English bear), from Proto-Italic *ferō, from Proto-Indo-European *bʰéreti (“to bear, carry”), from the root *bʰer-. Literally “carry forward”, equivalent to “bear in”, as in concluding from a premise. Doublet of inbear.