appointed

UK: əˈpɔɪntɪd | US: əˈpɔɪntɪd

Definition

  1. adj. officially chosen for a position or job

  2. vt. (past tense of "appoint") assigned a role or responsibility

Structure
ap <to, toward>point <mark, direct>ed <past participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "appointed" traces back to Old French apointer (to arrange, settle), derived from Latin ad- (to) + punctum (point, mark). The core idea is "to direct toward a specific mark or role," reflecting the act of formally selecting someone for a position. Over time, the prefix ap- (from ad-) merged with point (to designate), and the suffix -ed marked its past tense or adjectival form. The logic mirrors targeting a precise role, much like pointing to a spot on a map.

Examples

  1. She was appointed as the new CEO last month.

  2. The committee appointed a team to investigate the issue.

  3. The appointed time for the meeting is 3 PM.

  4. He felt honored to be appointed to such a prestigious role.

  5. The judge appointed a lawyer for the defendant.