Putative

Adjective

Definition: Generally considered or reputed to be.

Synonyms: Reputed, Supposed, Alleged, Presumed

Antonyms: Proven, Confirmed, Established

Examples:

The putative leader of the gang was arrested last night.
The putative cause of the disease has yet to be determined.

Mnemonics:

Think of "putative" as derived from "put" and "ative." The person or thing is "put" into a particular category or reputation.
Remember the similar-sounding word "reputed" which means generally believed to be true.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English (in the sense 'harboring') from Latin 'putativus', from 'putare' (to think, consider).

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the late Middle English period with its current meaning of "generally considered or reputed to be."

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Putative father"

Explanation:

Refers to a man who is believed to be the biological father of a child but is not legally recognized as such.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "putative" with "ultimate."

Explanation:

While both words have different meanings, "putative" refers to something generally considered or reputed to be, while "ultimate" means the final or most fundamental.