postulate means 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. It carries an Arena rating of 1385, earned across 3 head-to-head judged battles.
Among words judged in Lexicurio's Arena, postulate ranks #1,128 of 17,052 for Most Malleable Words, #4,631 of 17,052 for Words That Escaped Their Books, #4,835 of 17,052 for Most Incisive Words, #4,884 of 17,052 for Most Ponderous Words.
postulate is pronounced /ˈpɒstjʊlət/.
Why “postulate” is a great word
To assume or propose a theory, principle, or fact as true, especially as a basis for reasoning or argument. From Latin postulātus, past participle of postulō ('to demand, request, claim'). Unlike an axiom, a self-evident truth accepted without proof, or hypothesize, which proposes a testable explanation, to postulate is to demand a temporary truce with uncertainty. It is the geometer placing a point upon a blank page, the philosopher accepting consciousness as real, the strategist marking an unknown territory as friendly so the campaign may proceed—a necessary fiction that builds a world where reasoning can begin, an invitation to build from a single assumed truth.
Etymology
From Latin postulātus, perfect passive participle of postulō (“to request”), see -ate (verb-forming suffix) for more. Cognate with French postuler.
noun
- 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.
- An axiom.
- A requirement; a prerequisite.
verb
- To assume as a truthful or accurate premise or axiom, especially as a basis of an argument.e.g.“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; […]”
- To appoint or request one's appointment to an ecclesiastical office.e.g.“[A]lthough Douglas was postulated to it [the Abbacy of Arbroath], and signed letters and papers under this designation his nomination […] was never completed.”
- To request, demand or claim for oneself.
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