presumes; presumed; presuming
1
a
: to think that (something) is true without knowing that it is true
I presume [=assume, expect] (that) you'll fly to Chicago rather than drive.
I presume (that) the car was very expensive. = The car was very expensive, I presume.
"Is she still at work?" "I presume so, since she's not home."
b
: to accept legally or officially that something is true until it is proved not true
A person is presumed (to be) innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The court must presume innocence until there is proof of guilt.
After the earthquake several people were missing and presumed dead. [=believed to be dead]
2
formal
: to do (something) that you do not have the right or permission to do
—followed by to + verb
How can you presume [=dare] to speak for her?
I'm not going to presume to tell you how to do your job.
3
: to expect that someone has (a certain level of knowledge, skill, etc.)
The course presumes familiarity with basic computer programming. [=people who take the course should know basic computer programming]
Cite this Entry
“Presume.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/presume. Accessed 6 May. 2026.
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