Definition of "postulate" [pos•tu•late]

• To make claim for; demand. (verb-transitive)
• To assume or assert the truth, reality, or necessity of, especially as a basis of an argument. (verb-transitive)
• To assume as a premise or axiom; take for granted. See Synonyms at presume. (verb-transitive)
• Something assumed without proof as being self-evident or generally accepted, especially when used as a basis for an argument: "the postulate that there is little moral difference between the superpowers” ( Henry A. Kissinger). (noun)
• A fundamental element; a basic principle. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "One of the ways you postulate is to examine available evidence and available processes."
• "I think your postulate is often true for me, but that show might be my exception."
• "But it must be taken into consideration that the above postulate is itself a product of Western race-egotism, urged by our belief in our own righteousness and fostered by a faith in ourselves which may be as erroneous as are most fond race fancies."