Definition

To appoint someone to act on your behalf or to take your place in a specific role or duty.

Example

The manager decided to deputize her assistant during the meeting.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that they might deputize someone for the community event?

Yeah, I think it’s a great idea to have more people involved.

I wonder who they will choose to deputize this time.

Maybe someone with experience in organizing events!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deputize → It is formed from "deputare" (meaning to appoint or assign) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to cause to be). The word "deputize" means to make someone a deputy or to assign them a role or authority.

Memory Tip

Think of appointing someone to a role — 'deputare' means to assign, and '-ize' means to make. This helps you remember that to deputize is to make someone a deputy.

Visually Confused Words