delegation

noun

del·​e·​ga·​tion ˌde-li-ˈgā-shən 

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

Did you know?

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.

Synonyms

• contingent
• delegacy

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

Advertisement Krager wrote that Pelosi was honored to travel with the delegation, many of whom had family members who fought in World War II — including her uncle, Johnny. —Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2024

Roger Harris, president of Padgett Business Services, a financial services firm, explains that updates are required when an owner’s address, name, or legal status changes, or when operational shifts or new delegations of authority are implemented. —Francisco Velasquez, Quartz, 9 Dec. 2024

In addition to the Amir of Qatar, his wife, and their delegation, the prestigious gathering also included King Charles, Queen Camilla and Prince William. —Angel Saunders, People.com, 4 Dec. 2024

The latest: San Diego's delegation of 10 state representatives held steady at 60% women. —Noah Bressner, Axios, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see delegate entry 1

First Known Use

1555, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing delegation

• congressional delegation

Kids Definition

delegation

noun

del·​e·​ga·​tion ˌdel-i-ˈgā-shən 

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 

1

: the act of delegating

2

: a group of persons chosen to represent others