deputize

verb

dep·​u·​tize ˈde-pyə-ˌtīz How to pronounce deputize (audio)
deputized; deputizing

transitive verb

: to appoint as deputy

intransitive verb

: to act as deputy
deputization noun

Examples of deputize in a Sentence

I deputize for the newspaper's editor on the weekends. he deputized a local citizen to take charge of the situation while he went for reinforcements
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The state has begun deputizing local law enforcement agencies to work with ICE, including all 67 county sheriffs departments in Florida. Steven Walker, Orlando Sentinel, 20 Mar. 2025 Hialeah became Tuesday night the second city in Miami-Dade County to enter a partnership with the Trump administration to deputize local police officers to perform duties typically handled by federal immigration agents. Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 12 Mar. 2025 The state has begun deputizing local law enforcement agencies to work with ICE, including all 67 county sheriffs departments in Florida. Steven Walker, Orlando Sentinel, 20 Mar. 2025 The Florida Sheriffs Association recently announced that all 67 sheriffs are working with ICE, so all 67 county jails have deputized officers through the 287(g) program, as mandated by state law. Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deputize

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1736, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of deputize was circa 1736

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Cite this Entry

“Deputize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deputize. Accessed 19 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

deputize

verb
dep·​u·​tize ˈdep-yə-ˌtīz How to pronounce deputize (audio)
deputized; deputizing
1
: to appoint as deputy
2
: to act as deputy

Legal Definition

deputize

verb
dep·​u·​tize ˈde-pyə-ˌtīz How to pronounce deputize (audio)
deputized; deputizing

transitive verb

: to appoint as deputy

intransitive verb

: to act as deputy

More from Merriam-Webster on deputize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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