Dictionary

postulate

Pronunciation

Noun

postulate (plural postulates)

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.
(logic) An axiom.
A requirement; a prerequisite.

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Adjective

postulate (not comparable)

Verb

postulate (postulates, present participle postulating; past and past participle postulated)

To assume as a truthful or accurate premise or axiom, especially as a basis of an argument.
- 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; […]
- 1911, Encyclopædia Britannica, "Infinite",
  [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.
(ambitransitive, Christianity, historical) To appoint or request one's appointment to an ecclesiastical office.
- 1874, John Small (ed.), The Poetical Works of Gavin Douglas, Bishop of Dunkeld, Vol 1, p. xvi ↗
  [A]lthough Douglas was postulated to it [the Abbacy of Arbroath], and signed letters and papers under this designation his nomination […] was never completed.
(ambitransitive, obsolete) To request, demand or claim for oneself.

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