Definition of deputizenext
as in to appoint
to appoint as one's representative he deputized a local citizen to take charge of the situation while he went for reinforcements

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of deputize The most intensive version of the program, called the Task Force Model, deputizes local police to enforce immigration law, including arresting people on ICE's behalf during regular law enforcement work, like traffic stops. Meg Anderson, NPR, 4 Apr. 2026 But the document suggests Florida agencies have been assigned more funding than those in any other state through the federal 287(g) program — a controversial initiative that deputizes local officers to carry out limited immigration enforcement duties. Garrett Shanley, Miami Herald, 26 Mar. 2026 How much worse for others in the state, even next door in Nassau County, where ICE deputizes local police to help do their dirty work? Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 23 Mar. 2026 Hogan’s comments follow Moore’s decision to ban 287(g) agreements in the state, which allow ICE to deputize local law enforcement officers to carry out immigration enforcement. Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 19 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for deputize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deputize
Verb
  • Kennedy appointed eight new members, including some who have been skeptical about vaccines.
    Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 16 May 2026
  • Club icon Martin O’Neill was twice appointed as interim manager and, at the age of 74, this was his fourth league title with the team - coming 22 years after his previous one.
    ABC News, ABC News, 16 May 2026
Verb
  • That level of judgment cannot be delegated.
    Marcus Balzereit, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
  • The authority would also be able to delegate administration of specified sites to local authorities or corporations, subject to the council’s approval.
    Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 13 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Deputize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deputize. Accessed 17 May. 2026.

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