presumptive heir

Presumptive \Pre*sump"tive\, a. [Cf. F. pr['e]somptif.]
   1. Based on presumption or probability; grounded on probable
      evidence; probable; as, presumptive proof.
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   2. Presumptuous; arrogant. [R.] --Sir T. Browne.
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   {Presumptive evidence} (Law), that which is derived from
      circumstances which necessarily or usually attend a fact,
      as distinct from direct evidence or positive proof;
      indirect or circumstantial evidence. "Presumptive evidence
      of felony should be cautiously admitted." --Blackstone.
      The distinction, however, between direct and presumptive
      (or circumstantial) evidence is now generally abandoned;
      all evidence being now more or less direct and more or
      less presumptive.

   {Presumptive heir}. See {Heir presumptive}, under {Heir}.
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PRESUMPTIVE HEIR. One who, if the ancestor should die immediately, would 
under the present circumstances of things be his heir, but whose right of 
inheritance may be defeated by the contingency of some nearer heir being 
born; as a brother, who is the presumptive heir, may be defeated by the 
birth of a child to the ancestor. 2 Bl. Com. 208.