DictionaryAI

deputy

DEP-yuh-tee/ˈdɛpjəti/

Pluraldeputies

5 meanings of deputy

Practice

  1. 1
    second in commandnouncountable
    A person who is chosen to act for someone else and make decisions in their place.

    Like a backup player who steps onto the field when the star can't play.

    The mayor sent her deputy to open the new library.

    When the manager is away, his deputy signs all the paperwork.

    UsageOften before a job name: a deputy manager works just below the manager.

    Similarrepresentative, delegate, substitute, lieutenant

    Oppositeprincipal, chief, superior

    Note
  2. 2
    sheriff's officernounUScountable
    A police officer who works for a county sheriff.

    The deputy pulled the car over for speeding on the highway.

    Two deputies arrived at the scene within minutes of the call.

    UsagePeople also say deputy sheriff or sheriff's deputy.

    Note
  3. 3
    lawmakernouncountable
    A member of the parliament in some countries, such as France or Ireland.

    The deputy voted against the new tax bill.

    Voters elected a new deputy to represent their region.

    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    fill in forverbnonstandardtransitive or intransitive
    To stand in for someone, or to choose a person to act in your place.

    UsageIn careful writing, say deputize instead.

    Similarsubstitute, deputize, appoint, assign, delegate

  2. 5
    noun
    In coal mines, a worker who sets up supports and clears dangerous gas to keep miners safe.

Practice

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Origin

From French député, from Latin deputatus, meaning "appointed."

Checked 7 Nov 2026 · 3 facts