postulate

noun

Something assumed without proof as being self-evident or generally accepted, especially when used as a basis for an argument. Sometimes distinguished from axioms as being relevant to a particular science or context, rather than universally true, and following from other axioms rather than being an absolute assumption.

A fundamental element; a basic principle.

A requirement; a prerequisite.

(logic) An axiom.

verb

To assume as a truthful or accurate premise or axiom, especially as a basis of an argument.

(ambitransitive, Christianity, historical) To appoint or request one's appointment to an ecclesiastical office.

(ambitransitive, obsolete) To request, demand or claim for oneself.

adjective

Postulated.

Roots

postularepostul- · Latin · to demand, request

Synonyms for postulate

positn postulationn hypothesisn supposaln suppositionn conjecturen presuppositionn assumptionn surmisev premisen presumev theoremn

Synonyms & related words for postulate

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Words related to postulate

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Synonyms for postulate

Common synonyms for postulate include posit, postulation, hypothesis, supposal, supposition, conjecture, presupposition, assumption — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does postulate come from?

The word postulate breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root postul-, from Latin postulare (“to demand, request”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.