delegation

noun

del·​e·​ga·​tion ˌde-li-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce delegation (audio)
1
: the act of empowering to act for another
the delegation of responsibilities
2
: a group of persons chosen to represent others
the state's congressional delegation

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What Is a delegation?

The task of a delegation—each member of which can be called a delegate—is to represent a larger group, often at a conference. Thus, a delegation of nondoctors to a medical convention may want to make sure the rights and needs of patients aren't ignored, just as a delegation of laypeople may attend a religious conference to express the concerns of other laypeople.

Examples of delegation in a Sentence

He's been chosen to lead the delegation to the conference. a delegation from the local scout troop is being sent to the national jamboree
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.
As a number of long-serving members have retired in recent years, Moore has become the de facto dean of Wisconsin’s House delegation. Alison Dirr, Journal Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2024 Only the states with clear delegation majorities (either Democratic or Republican) cast votes for a candidate. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 Arizona’s congressional delegation is now 6-3 Republican, so flipping both seats could flip the delegation to Democrats. Stephanie Innes, The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024 If a candidate for president is unable to secure votes from 26 delegations before Inauguration Day on Jan. 20, and the Senate has already selected a vice president, that person would become acting president until the House vote is settled. Sara Dorn, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for delegation 

Word History

Etymology

see delegate entry 1

First Known Use

1555, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of delegation was in 1555

Dictionary Entries Near delegation

Cite this Entry

“Delegation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/delegation. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

delegation

noun
del·​e·​ga·​tion ˌdel-i-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce delegation (audio)
1
: the act of delegating power or authority to another
2
: one or more persons chosen to represent others

Legal Definition

delegation

noun
del·​e·​ga·​tion ˌde-li-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce delegation (audio)
1
: the act of delegating
2
: a group of persons chosen to represent others

More from Merriam-Webster on delegation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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