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

The American Astronomical Society (AAS), which published a petition in March for the FCC to deny Reflect Orbital’s proposal, hopes to bring the issue to Congress, says Roohi Dalal, the organization’s deputy director for public policy. — Mary Randolph, Scientific American, 16 July 2026

The idea of abandoning the whole schedule alarmed several health officials, including then-FDA commissioner Marty Makary and Tracy Beth Høeg, one of his top deputies, four sources said. — CNN Money, 16 July 2026

The investigation remained underway Thursday as deputies sought to confirm whether the suspects were connected to all 12 thefts, according to the Sheriff’s Office. — Reeti Malhotra, Sacbee.com, 16 July 2026

Recently released political prisoners include Henry Alviárez, Vente Venezuela's deputy leader. — John Otis, NPR, 16 July 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