Meaning & Definition of word "Delegate"
to
Delegate
/ˈdɛlɪɡət/
noun:
- 1. A person chosen or elected to act or represent others, especially at a conference.
- Example: Each state sends a delegate to the national convention to represent its interests.
- 2. A representative or agent with specific authority.
- Example: The delegate was tasked with negotiating the terms of the agreement.
verb:
- 1. To assign responsibility or authority to another person.
- Example: The manager decided to delegate the tasks to her team to improve efficiency.
- 2. To act as a representative on behalf of others.
- Example: She was chosen to delegate the committee's decisions at the annual conference.
Etymology
From Latin 'delegatus', past participle of 'delegare', meaning 'to send as a representative'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
delegate authority:
To give someone else the power to make decisions.
delegate responsibility:
To assign tasks to another person.
delegate tasks:
To distribute duties among team members.
Related Words
delegation:
A group of delegates representing others.
delegatee:
A person to whom a delegation is made.
delegating:
The act of assigning tasks to others.
Slang Meanings of delegate
Meaning: To pass the buck
Example Sentence: Stop delegating problems; take responsibility.
Meaning: Hand off
Example Sentence: He just hands off the tasks to his assistant.