depute
UK: dɪˈpjuːt | US: dɪˈpjuːt
vt. to appoint or assign (someone) to act on one's behalf
vt. to delegate (authority or a task) to another
depute = de<down/away> + pute<think>
- de: A Latin prefix meaning "down," "away," or "off," often indicating removal or separation.
- pute: Derived from Latin putare ("to think, consider, reckon"), reflecting the idea of assigning responsibility through deliberate consideration.
Etymology Origin:
The word "depute" originates from Latin deputare ("to allot, assign"), combining de- (indicating delegation) and putare (suggesting reasoned assignment). Over time, it evolved through Old French deputer before entering English, retaining its core meaning of transferring authority or tasks thoughtfully.
The manager decided to depute the project to her most trusted assistant.
Judges often depute minor cases to lower courts.
The CEO deputed his voting rights to the board during his absence.
She was deputed to handle negotiations with the foreign delegates.
The law allows the mayor to depute emergency powers to local officials.