transitive verb

1
: to dispose or set firmly : fix
2
: to assume or affirm the existence of : postulate
3
: to propose as an explanation : suggest

Examples of posit in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adamson posits that culture grows as designed, akin to a garden needing pruning, not a construction project. Nell Derick Debevoise Dewey, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 In their report, the authors posit that the image, which until now had been thought to represent a warrior with a spear, is in fact a painting of Juun Ajaw, a central figure in Maya mythology best known from the Mayan sacred text the Popol Voh. Anne Doran, ARTnews.com, 17 July 2026 The reporter quoted Pfleger himself complaining about how unfair the policies of investigation are, and posited that people are out to destroy him and to get money from the archdiocese. Daily Southtown, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026 Some have theorized that the area is a hotbed of alien activity, positing that these extraterrestrial beings are abducting humans for study. Andrea Romano, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for posit

Word History

Etymology

Latin positus, past participle of ponere

First Known Use

1645, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of posit was in 1645

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Cite this Entry

“Posit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/posit. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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