Definition of: inference

(in′fər·əns) noun
1. The act of inferring.
2. That which is inferred; a deduction or conclusion.
3. Loosely, a conjecture. [<Med. L inferentia <L inferens, -entis, ppr. of inferre. See INFER.] Synonyms: conclusion, consequence, deduction, demonstration, induction. A conclusion is the absolute and necessary result of the admission of certain premises; an inference is a probable conclusion, toward which known facts, statements, or admissions point, but which they do not absolutely establish; sound premises together with their necessary conclusion constitute a demonstration. See DEMONSTRATION, INDUCTION.