postulate — English Dictionary

Noun

1. 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.

2. A fundamental element; a basic principle.

3. An axiom.

4. A requirement; a prerequisite.

Verb

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

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   1883, Benedictus de Spinoza, translated by R. H. M. Elwes, Ethics, Part 3, Prop. XXII, But this pleasure or pain is postulated to come to us accompanied by the idea of an external cause; […]

   [T]he attempt to arrive at a physical explanation of existence led the Ionian thinkers to postulate various primal elements or simply the infinite τὸ ἀπειρον.

2. To appoint or request one's appointment to an ecclesiastical office.

   Usage

   • Transitive or intransitive
   • Historical

   Examples

   [A]lthough Douglas was postulated to it [the Abbacy of Arbroath], and signed letters and papers under this designation his nomination […] was never completed.

3. To request, demand or claim for oneself.

   Usage

   • Transitive or intransitive
   • Obsolete

Noun

1. (logic) a proposition that is accepted as true in order to provide a basis for logical reasoning

   Synonyms

   posit

   Broader terms

   proposition

Verb

1. maintain or assert

   Synonyms

   contend

   Broader terms

   claim

   Examples

   He contended that Communism had no future

2. take as a given; assume as a postulate or axiom

   Synonyms

   posit

   Broader terms

   presupposesuppose

   Examples

   He posited three basic laws of nature

3. require as useful, just, or proper

   Synonyms

   necessitateaskneedrequiretakeinvolvecall fordemand

   Broader terms

   referpertainrelateconcerncome tobear ontouchtouch onhave to do with

   Examples

   It takes nerve to do what she did

   success usually requires hard work

   More examples (4)

   This job asks a lot of patience and skill

   This position demands a lot of personal sacrifice

   This dinner calls for a spectacular dessert

   This intervention does not postulate a patient's consent