deputy

A person just below a leader who helps them and can do their job when needed.

• The director sent her deputy.
• He became deputy head of the school.
• A sheriff’s deputy stopped the car.

Similar words: second-in-command, assistant

Common phrases: deputy director, deputy head, sheriff’s deputy

Someone officially chosen to act for another person or group.

• The prince appointed a deputy.
• She sent a deputy to represent her at the meeting.
• His deputy had authority to sign the agreement.

How to use it: deputy for someone (She acted as deputy for the absent chairperson.)

Similar words: representative, substitute, proxy

Common phrases: act as deputy, deputy for someone, appointed deputy

An elected member of France’s National Assembly.

• She was elected a deputy in France.
• The deputies debated the proposed law.
• Each deputy represents a French constituency.

Similar words: MP, legislator

Common phrases: French deputy, elected deputy, deputy in parliament