■ noun ( plural deputies )
1》 a person appointed to undertake the duties of a superior in the superior's absence.
2》 a parliamentary representative in certain countries.
3》 Brit. a coal mine official responsible for safety.
Phrases
by ~ historical by proxy.
Derivatives
~ship noun
Origin
ME: from OFr. depute , from late L. deputatus , past participle of deputare (see depute ).