WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Pre*sump"tive
Part of Speech : a.
Etymology : [Cf. F. pr?somptif.]
Definition : 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.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913