Delegate

Definition

Delegate can function as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person appointed or elected to represent others. As a verb, it means to assign responsibility or authority to another person to carry out specific tasks or duties.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /ˈdɛlɪɡət/
• Respelling: DEL-i-gut
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /ˈdɛlɪˌɡeɪt/
• Respelling: DEL-i-gayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (noun): /ˈdɛlɪɡət/
• Respelling: DEL-i-gut
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /ˈdɛlɪˌɡeɪt/
• Respelling: DEL-i-gayt

The pronunciation of "delegate" is the same in both American and British English for both its noun and verb forms.

Etymology

The word "delegate" originates from the Latin word "delegatus," meaning "to send from." It is composed of "de-" meaning "from" and "legare," meaning "to send with a commission." The term was adopted into Middle English in the 15th century, retaining its meaning of sending or assigning responsibility.

Derivatives

• Delegation (noun)
• Delegator (noun)
• Delegating (verb)
• Delegated (verb)
• Undelegated (adjective)

Synonyms

• Representative
• Envoy
• Assign

Antonyms

• Retain
• Hold
• Keep

Usage

The word "delegate" is often used in professional, political, and organizational contexts. As a noun, it refers to someone who has been appointed to represent a group, such as a "delegate to the conference." As a verb, it refers to the act of assigning tasks or authority to others, as in "She delegated the work to her assistants."

Related Terms

• Representation: The action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone.
• Mandate: An official order or commission to do something.
• Authority: The power or right to give orders and make decisions.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person authorized to represent others: Refers to someone appointed or elected to represent a group or organization in official matters.
  • Example: "Each state sent two delegates to the national convention."

Verb

• To assign responsibility to another person: Refers to transferring tasks, duties, or authority to someone else.
  • Example: "The manager delegated some of her workload to the junior staff."