PRESUMPTIVE
Pre*sump"tive, a. Etym: [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.
PRESUMPTIVELY
Pre*sump"tive*ly, adv.
Defn: By presumption, or supposition grounded or probability; presumably.
PRESUMPTUOUS
Pre*sump"tu*ous, a. Etym: [L. praesumptuosus: cf. F. présomptueux,
OF. also presumptuous. See Presumption.]
1. Full of presumption; presuming; overconfident or venturesome; audacious; rash; taking liberties unduly; arrogant; insolent; as, a presumptuous commander; presumptuous conduct. A class of presumptuous men, whom age has not made cautious, nor adversity wise. Buckminster.
2. Founded on presumption; as, a presumptuous idea. "False, presumptuous hope." Milton.
3. Done with hold design, rash confidence, or in violation of known duty; willful. "Keep back the servant also from presumptuous sins." Ps. xix. 13.
Syn. — Overconfident; foolhardy; rash; presuming; forward; arrogant; insolent.