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Webster 1913 Edition


Presumptive

Pre-sump′tive

,
Adj.
[Cf. F.
présomptif
.]
1.
Based on presumption or probability; grounded on probable evidence; probable;
as,
presumptive
proof
.
2.
Presumptuous; arrogant.
[R.]
Sir T. Browne.
Presumptive evidence
(Law)
,
that which is derived from circumstances which necessarily or usually attend a fact, as distinct from direct evidence or positive proof; indirect or circumstantial evidence. “Presumptive evidence of felony should be cautiously admitted.”
Blackstone.
The distinction, however, between direct and presumptive (or circumstantial) evidence is now generally abandoned; all evidence being now more or less direct and more or less presumptive.
Presumptive heir
.
See
Heir presumptive
, under
Heir
.

Webster 1828 Edition


Presumptive

PRESUMP'TIVE

,
Adj.
Taken by previous supposition; grounded on probable evidence.
1.
Unreasonably confident; adventuring without reasonable ground to expect success; presumptuous; arrogant.
Presumptive evidence, in law, is that which is derived from circumstances which necessarily or usually attend a fact, as distinct from direct evidence or positive proof.
Presumptive evidence of felony should be cautiously admitted.
Presumptive heir, one who would inherit an estate if the ancestor should die with things in their present state, but whose right of inheritance may be defeated by the birth of a nearer heir before the death of the ancestor. Thus the presumptive succession of a brother or nephew may be destroyed by the birth of a child. Presumptive heir is distinguished from heir apparent, whose right of inheritance is indefeasible, provided he outlives the ancestor.

Definition 2024


presumptive

presumptive

English

Adjective

presumptive (comparative more presumptive, superlative most presumptive)

  1. Based on presumption, probability, conjecture, hypothesis or belief.
    By late May, he was already considered his party's presumptive nominee.
  2. Making presumptions; behaving as one who presumes, who assumes that which they perhaps shouldn't.
    Forgive me for being presumptive, but aren't you and Mark engaged?

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