Postulate

/ˈpɒs.tʃə.leɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A statement or proposition that is assumed to be true, often as a basis for argument or reasoning.

The theory is based on the postulate that all living beings require water to survive.

A fundamental principle in a particular field of study.

One postulate of physics is that the laws of nature are the same everywhere in the universe.

verb

To assume or suggest the existence, fact, or truth of something as a basis for reasoning.

The researchers postulate that climate change could lead to mass migrations of populations.

To put forward a hypothesis or assumption.

In her paper, she postulated that the new drug could be effective based on preliminary tests.

Late Latin 'postulatus', past participle of 'postulare' which means ‘to demand, claim.’

postulate a theory

To suggest a theoretical explanation based on assumed facts.

take as a postulate

To accept something as true without proof.

postulate a relationship

To assume a connection or correlation between two entities.

axiom

A statement regarded as a self-evident truth.

hypothesis

A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence.

Put out there

I'm just postulating the idea of a vacation next month.

Throwing it out as a suggestion

Just postulate it and see what others think.