Elect

Definition

Elect is a verb and an adjective. As a verb, it means to choose or select someone for a position or office through a vote or other selection process. As an adjective, it describes a person chosen for a position but not yet officially holding it.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈlɛkt/
• Respelling: ih-LEKT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈlɛkt/
• Respelling: ih-LEKT

Etymology

The word "elect" originates from the Latin "eligere," meaning "to pick out" or "choose," from "e-" (out) and "legere" (to choose or read). It entered English through Old French "élire" and Middle English "electen," referring to selecting or appointing.

Derivatives

• Election (noun)
• Elector (noun)
• Elective (adjective)
• Re-elect (verb)
• Electorate (noun)

Synonyms

• Choose
• Appoint
• Select

Antonyms

• Reject
• Deselect
• Dismiss

Usage

The term "elect" is commonly used in political and organizational contexts to refer to selecting individuals for positions, as in "The citizens will elect a new mayor next month." It is also used as an adjective for individuals who have been chosen but not yet officially inaugurated, as in "the president-elect."

Related Terms

• Appoint: To assign a person to a position or role.
• Nominate: To formally propose a candidate for election or appointment.
• Ballot: A process of voting, typically in secret.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To choose or select someone for a position or office: Refers to the act of voting or deciding on a person to fulfill a role.
  • Example: "They will elect a new board member at the meeting."
• To decide to do something by choice: Describes selecting a course of action voluntarily.
  • Example: "He elected to pursue further studies instead of taking the job."

Adjective

• Chosen for a position but not yet in office: Refers to someone selected but awaiting official inauguration.
  • Example: "The committee welcomed the governor-elect."