rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryputativeSupposed
adjective

putative

PYOO-tuh-tiv/ˈpjuːtətɪv/

Generally believed or claimed to be so, but not proven.

Spectators gather around the putative winner while the official checks the close finish.

A putative race winner: spectators converge on one runner as the apparent victor while an official still examines an extremely close finish photograph.
Etymology
putatLatinjudge, suppose
+iveLatinadjective-forming suffix

Latin putare supplies the idea of judging or supposing, so putative describes what people take something to be, not necessarily what it is. Early use included marriages entered in good faith but legally invalid.

In context

Daryle C. Tibbs0:08
a putative father must register no later than 15 days after the baby's birth in order to preserve his rights
Adoption: How long does a "putative" father have to register on the registry to preserve rights?

More examples

  • Researchers are testing the putative link between the chemical and memory loss.
  • A DNA test rules out the child's putative father.
  • The putative heir must prove her claim to the estate.

Similar words

supposed
Often suggests stronger doubt about whether the description is true.
alleged
Emphasizes a claim made by someone, especially about wrongdoing.
presumed
Suggests acceptance based on reasonable grounds until contrary evidence appears.