deputy

noun

dep·​u·​ty ˈde-pyə-tē 

plural deputies

1

a

: a person appointed as a substitute with power to act

b

: a second in command or assistant who usually takes charge in the absence of a superior

—often used before another noun

the deputy director

2

: a member of the lower house of some legislative assemblies

Synonyms of deputy

• delegate
• representative
• agent
• attorney
• minister
• manager
• ambassador

Examples of deputy in a Sentence

the club president sent a deputy to the conference to vote on our behalf

a deputy supervisor to help out with routine tasks

Recent Examples on the Web

In July 2026, deputies arrested her for a similar spree at a Camarillo shopping center, but she was released after posting bond. — Matthew Rodriguez, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026

While a reserve left-back remains on the club’s shopping list before the window closes, James Justin has proved an able deputy over the past 12 months. — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

The teen, who the Orlando Sentinel isn’t naming because he has not been charged as an adult, was arrested for felony battery after speaking with deputies Tuesday, an OCSO spokesperson said in a news release. — Cristóbal Reyes, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026

Instead, a Scott County deputy pulled up to Kelly High School. — Dateline Nbc, NBC news, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French deputé, past participle of deputer

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

deputy

noun

dep·​u·​ty ˈdep-yət-ē 

plural deputies

1

: a person appointed to act for or in place of another

2

: an assistant who usually takes charge when his or her superior is absent

deputy adjective

Legal Definition

deputy

noun

dep·​u·​ty ˈde-pyə-tē 

plural deputies

1

: a person appointed as a substitute with power to act

2

: a second in command or assistant who usually takes charge when his or her superior is absent

specifically : deputy sheriff

Etymology

Middle French deputé person appointed to exercise authority, from past participle of deputer to appoint, depute