v. sup·posed, sup·pos·ing, sup·pos·es v.tr. 1. To assume to be true or real for the sake of argument or explanation: Suppose we win the lottery. 2. a. To believe, especially on uncertain or tentative grounds: Scientists supposed that large dinosaurs lived in swamps. b. To consider to be probable or likely: I suppose it will rain. 3. To imply as an antecedent condition; presuppose: "Patience must suppose pain" (Samuel Johnson). 4. To consider as a suggestion: Suppose we dine together. v.intr. To imagine; conjecture. [Middle English supposen, from Old French supposer, alteration (influenced by poser, to place) of Medieval Latin suppōnere, from Latin, to put under : sub-, sub- + pōnere, to place; see apo- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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