Definition of "deputy" in English

noun

1. One appointed as the substitute of others, and empowered to act for them, in their name or their behalf; a substitute in office.

   • the deputy of a prince
   • The deputy sheriff was promoted after his senior retired.
   • As the deputy store manager, he is able to fire staff.

2. (mining, historical) A person employed to install and remove props, brattices, etc. and to clear gas, for the safety of the miners.

3. (government) The name for a member of parliament in some countries.

   • The State Duma comprises 450 deputies.

4. (US) a law enforcement officer who works for the county sheriff's office; a deputy sheriff or sheriff's deputy; the entry level rank in such an agency.

   • The sheriff's deputies took the suspect into custody.
   • Deputy Jones was promoted to corporal today.

verb

1. (informal, nonstandard) to deputise