presumptive

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   based on reasonable inference or probability rather than direct proof or certainty

   The matching tracks provided presumptive evidence that the animal had crossed the river.

2. 2
   adj

   expected to hold a position or status unless a later event or stronger claim changes the outcome

   After the final primaries, she became the party's presumptive nominee.

Appears in

From late Middle English and Anglo-French presumptif, ultimately from Late Latin praesumptivus, 'based on presumption,' from Latin praesumere, 'take beforehand, suppose.' Legal and political uses preserve the idea of a status accepted in advance but still open to displacement or contrary proof.

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