depute
Americanverb (used with object)
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to appoint as one's substitute, representative, or agent.
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to assign (authority, a function, etc.) to a deputy.
verb
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to appoint as an agent, substitute, or representative
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to assign or transfer (authority, duties, etc) to a deputy; delegate
noun
Other Word Forms
- deputable adjective
- undeputed adjective
Etymology
Origin of depute
1350–1400; Middle English deputen < Anglo-French, Old French deputer to assign < Late Latin dēputāre to allot, Latin: to consider, equivalent to dē- de- + putāre to think
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The advocate depute referred back to the statement she made in May 2024.
From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026
The advocate depute asked: "I am asking you as you stand here on oath if you remember were there any grievances on the Edradynate between Brian and David?"
From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026
Advocate depute Scott McKenzie told the court that Colville, an early years assistant, had no previous convictions.
From BBC • Nov. 20, 2025
McKelvie's partner and SNP depute leader Keith Brown described her as a beloved mother-of-two, partner and grandmother who "lit up every room she was in with her positivity and bright smile".
From BBC • Mar. 27, 2025
All that the sturdy Rollo could be prevailed upon to do, however, was to place his hand in that of the king, and to depute one of his followers to do homage for him.
From The Galaxy, May, 1877 Vol. XXIII.—May, 1877.—No. 5. by Various
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
