As*sume" , v. i. 1. To
be arrogant or pretentious; to claim more
than is due. Bp. Burnet.
2. (Law) To undertake, as by a promise. Burrill.
As*sume" (&?;), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Assumed (&?;); 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.
Trembling they stand while Jove assumes the throne.
Pope.
The god assumed his native form again.
Pope.
2. To take for
granted, or without proof; to suppose as a
fact; to suppose or take arbitrarily or tentatively.
The consequences of assumed principles.
Whewell.
3. To pretend to
possess; to take in appearance.
Ambition assuming
the mask of
religion.
Porteus.
Assume a
virtue, if you have it not.
Shak.
4. To receive or adopt.
The sixth was
a young knight of lesser renown and lower rank, assumed into that honorable company.
Sir W.
Scott.
Syn. -- To arrogate; usurp; appropriate.
Hear it pronounced