subrogate

verb

sub·​ro·​gate ˈsə-brō-ˌgāt 

subrogated; subrogating

transitive verb

: to put in the place of another

especially : to substitute (something or someone, such as a second creditor) for another with regard to a legal right or claim

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin subrogatus, past participle of subrogare, surrogare — more at surrogate entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

subrogate

transitive verb

sub·​ro·​gate ˈsə-brō-ˌgāt 

subrogated; subrogating

: to put in the place of another by the doctrine of subrogation : substitute (as a second creditor) for another with regard to a legal right or claim

subrogates the trustee to the priority and avoidance rights of certain unsecured creditors

—J. J. White and R. S. Summers

the surety who pays the principal obligation is subrogated…to the rights of the creditor

—Louisiana Civil Code

Etymology

Latin subrogatus, past participle of subrogare, surrogare to elect as a substitute, from sub- under + rogare to request