Definition

To appoint someone to act on your behalf or to give someone the authority to do something for you.

Example

The manager decided to depute his assistant to handle the meeting in his absence.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that they decided to depute someone for the project presentation?

Yeah, I heard about that! Who did they choose?

They've deputed Mark, since he's really good at public speaking.

That's a great choice! He'll do an excellent job.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Depute → It is formed from 'de-' (meaning down or away) and 'putare' (meaning to reckon or consider). The word originally referred to the act of assigning someone to a position or task, effectively 'putting' them down in a role.

Memory Tip

Think of 'putting someone down' ('putare') into a role or position when you 'assign' them ('de-'). This helps you remember that to depute means to assign someone to act on your behalf.

Visually Confused Words