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designate

des·ig·nate

designate

 
 
parts of speech:
transitive verb, adjective
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word Builder, Grammatical Patterns, Word Parts
part of speech: transitive verb
pronunciation: de zihg neIt
inflections: designates, designating, designated
definition 1: to distinguish by means of description, marks, name, or the like; specify.
The committee designated those houses that would have to be removed to make way for the highway.The announcement designated the winners of the essay competition.
synonyms:
earmark, label, mark, name, specify
similar words:
distinguish, identify, indicate, point, stipulate
definition 2: to stand for, mean, or indicate.
Formerly, the word "courtesy" designated all the knightly virtues, including strength and courage.
synonyms:
denote, indicate, signify, stand for
similar words:
characterize, connote, define, depict, imply, represent, suggest, symbolize
definition 3: to choose (someone or something) to serve in a particular capacity or for a particular purpose.
The President designated her as chair of the commission.The head of the mob designated him to carry out the murder.[verb + smby/smth + infinitive ] Who designated YOU the leader here?[verb + smby/smth + noun/adj ]
synonyms:
appoint, assign, name
similar words:
call, choose, delegate, earmark, elect, nominate, pick, select
definition 4: to place in a particular category; characterize.
The courts designated all shoplifting as larceny.
synonyms:
categorize, classify
similar words:
brand, characterize, class, define, identify, label, name, tag
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part of speech: adjective
pronunciation: dez ihg niht
definition: having been appointed to a position but not yet serving in it.
synonyms:
elect
similar words:
assigned, chosen
derivations: designative (adj.), designatory (adj.), designator (n.)
Word Builder: designate +
  • designated driver:
    a person who some people designate to drink no alcohol. This person can then drive a car for the people who have drunk alcohol.
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