As-sūme’1, v. t.
v. t. [imp. & p. p. ASSUMED; p. pr. & vb. n. ASSUMING.] [Lat. assumere, from ad and sumere, to take; Fr. assumer.]
Sense 1. To receive or adopt. [Rare.] The sixth was a young knight of lesser renown and lower rank, assumed into that honorable company. W. Scott.
Sense 2. To take, or take upon one’s self. The god assumed his native form again. Pope.
Sense 3. To take for granted, or without proof; to suppose as a fact. “The consequences of assumed principles.” Whewell.
Sense 4. To pretend to possess; to take in appearance. “Ambition assuming the mask of religion.” Porteus.
Assume a virtue, if you have it not. Shak.
Synonyms—To arrogate; usurp; appropriate.