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delegate

DEL-uh-ghit /ˈdelɪɡət/

nounverbB2SATTOEFLGREIELTS

formal

A person selected or elected to represent others at a conference, assembly, or convention.

Often carries specific, bound instructions on how to vote on behalf of a larger organization.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'delegatus', past participle of 'delegare' (to send as an envoy or assign a task). It combines 'de-' (from) with 'legare' (to send with an official commission).

Word relationships

envoy: 'Envoy' is primarily used in diplomacy, whereas 'delegate' is common in conventions and governance assemblies.
deputy: A 'deputy' acts as a second-in-command substitute, while a 'delegate' is specifically designated to represent a vote.

principal: The 'principal' is the person authorizing another to act, whereas the 'delegate' is the agent who carries out the duty.

Commonly confused with

relegate: 'Relegate' means to assign to a lower position, whereas 'delegate' means to assign authority or send as a representative.

Word family

delegation (noun): A group of delegates representing an organization.
delegated (adjective): Entrusted or assigned to another person.

Collocations

voting delegate
student delegate
delegate authority
appoint a delegate

Idioms & expressions

bound delegate

Example sentences

"Each delegate was assigned to advocate for their university during the regional governance assembly." Model United Nations orientation
"The student senate sent a voting delegate to present their resolution at the board meeting." Student union charter document

Memory hook

DELEGATES are sent away on a LEGation to convey official votes. Sent with a specific mission.

When not to use

Do not confuse with a general trustee who has total personal discretion over all decisions.

Fun facts

In modern political conventions, 'pledged delegates' are legally bound by primary results to vote for specific candidates on the first ballot!