postulate

POS'TULATE, n. [L. postulatum, from postulo, to demand, from the root of posco, to ask or demand. The sense is to urge or push.]

A position or supposition assumed without proof, or one which is considered as self-evident, or too plain to require illustration.

A self-evident problem, answering to axiom, which is a self-evident theorem.

POS'TULATE, v.t. [supra.] To beg or assume without proof. [Little used.]

1. To invite; to solicit; to require by entreaty.

2. To assume; to take without positive consent.

The Byzantine emperors appear to have exercised, or at least to have postulated a sort of paramount supremacy over this nation.