əˈsju:m v.tr. 1 (usu. foll. by
that + clause)
take or
accept as
being true,
without proof,
for the purpose of
argument or
action. 2
simulate or
pretend (ignorance etc.). 3
undertake (an
office or duty). 4 take or put on
oneself or
itself (an
aspect,
attribute, etc.) (the
problem assumed
immense proportions). 5 (usu. foll. by to)
arrogate,
usurp, or
seize (credit,
power, etc.) (assumed to
himself the
right of veto). øøassumable adj. assumedly adv. [ME f. L assumere (as
AD-, sumere sumpttake)]