Assume (&unr_;), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Assumed (&unr_;); p. pr. & vb. n. Assuming.] [L. assumere; ad + sumere to take; sub + emere to take, buy: cf. F. assumer. See Redeem.] 1. To take to or upon one's self; to take formally and demonstratively; sometimes, to appropriate or take unjustly.
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Trembling they stand while Jove assumes the throne. Pope.
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The god assumed his native form again. Pope.
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2. To take for granted, or without proof; to suppose as a fact; to suppose or take arbitrarily or tentatively.
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The consequences of assumed principles. Whewell.
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3. To pretend to possess; to take in appearance.
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Ambition assuming the mask of religion. Porteus.
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Assume a virtue, if you have it not. Shak.
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4. To receive or adopt.
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The sixth was a young knight of lesser renown and lower rank, assumed into that honorable company. Sir W. Scott.
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Syn. -- To arrogate; usurp; appropriate.
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