presumptive heir

noun

, Law.

1. heir presumptive.

Word History and Origins

Origin of presumptive heir¹

First recorded in 1620–30

Example Sentences

Mr. Thomas Anthony Trollope married and became the father of a family as presumptive heir to the good estate of an uncle.

From Project Gutenberg

Francis Levison is my husband's nephew, his presumptive heir; it may, therefore, appear strange that I set my face against him.

From Project Gutenberg

He was again placed in the bosom of his nurse, and the presumptive heir of Selimansha was at length out of danger.

From Project Gutenberg

But while the presumptive heir of the Persian throne was reduced to such a strange situation, how was Queen Chamsada employed?

From Project Gutenberg

Sometimes he is styled the Master of Maxwell, as presumptive heir of the title.

From Project Gutenberg