subrogate

verb

sub·​ro·​gate ˈsə-brō-ˌgāt How to pronounce subrogate (audio)
subrogated; subrogating

transitive verb

: to put in the place of another
especially : to substitute (something or someone, such as a second creditor) for another with regard to a legal right or claim

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin subrogatus, past participle of subrogare, surrogare — more at surrogate entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subrogate was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near subrogate

Cite this Entry

“Subrogate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subrogate. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Legal Definition

subrogate

transitive verb
sub·​ro·​gate ˈsə-brō-ˌgāt How to pronounce subrogate (audio)
subrogated; subrogating
: to put in the place of another by the doctrine of subrogation : substitute (as a second creditor) for another with regard to a legal right or claim
subrogates the trustee to the priority and avoidance rights of certain unsecured creditorsJ. J. White and R. S. Summers
the surety who pays the principal obligation is subrogated…to the rights of the creditorLouisiana Civil Code
Etymology

Latin subrogatus, past participle of subrogare surrogare to elect as a substitute, from sub- under + rogare to request

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