v. & adj.
--v.tr. (usu. foll. by to + infin.) 1 choose (the principles they elected to follow).
2 choose (a person) by vote (elected a new chairman).
3 Theol. (of God) choose (persons) in preference to others for salvation.
--adj.
1. chosen.
2 select, choice.
3 Theol. chosen by God.
4 (after a noun designating office) chosen but not yet in office (president elect).
Etymology: ME f. L electus past part. of eligere elect- (as E-, legere pick)