presume

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To suppose something is true without proof; to take for granted.

   I presume you've already met everyone in the office.

2. 2
   verb

   To be bold enough to do something without proper permission or right.

   I wouldn't presume to tell you how to run your business.

3. 3
   verb

   To take unfair advantage of someone's kindness or trust.

   I don't want to presume on the generosity of a stranger.

From Middle English presumen, from Anglo-Norman presumer and its source, Latin praesūmere (“to take beforehand, anticipate”), from prae- + sūmere (“to take”).

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