v.tr.
1. (usu. foll. by that + clause) take or accept as being true, without proof, for the purpose of argument or action.
2 simulate or pretend (ignorance etc.).
3 undertake (an office or duty).
4 take or put on oneself or itself (an aspect, attribute, etc.) (the problem assumed immense proportions).
5 (usu. foll. by to) arrogate, usurp, or seize (credit, power, etc.) (assumed to himself the right of veto).
Derivatives:
assumable adj. assumedly adv.
Etymology: ME f. L assumere (as AD-, sumere sumpt- take)