presume
Meaning
To suppose that something is true based on reasonable probability, though not certain.
To act overconfidently or take liberties, especially by doing something without permission.
Structure
Usage
I presume you have already completed the required reading for the seminar.
The lawyer warned the jury not to presume the defendant's guilt.
He presumed on their friendship by asking for yet another significant favor.
Etymology
The word 'presume' originates from the Latin verb 'praesumere,' a compound of 'prae-' (before) and 'sumere' (to take). It literally meant "to take beforehand" or "to take upon oneself in advance." This core idea evolved along two paths: one logical, where taking something for granted before having proof led to the meaning of "suppose," and one social, where taking action before receiving authorization led to the meaning of "dare" or "be overconfident." It entered English via Old French 'presumer' in the late 14th century, carrying these dual senses of anticipatory assumption and forward behavior.
Analysis
'pre-' is a Latin prefix meaning "before, in advance." 'sume' is from the Latin root 'sumere,' meaning "to take, to get, to assume."