The word “appoint” is one that is commonly used in everyday language, but do we really know what it means? In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of appoint, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
To appoint means to assign a task or responsibility to someone, or to designate a time or place for a meeting or event. It can also refer to the act of nominating someone for a position or role.
Origin
The word “appoint” comes from the Old French word “apointer,” which means “to arrange” or “to set in order.” It was first used in English in the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, appoint means “to choose (someone) for a position or duty,” “to decide or establish (something) in an official way,” or “to set apart for a particular purpose or use.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines appoint as “to assign or designate (a person, thing, or place) to a particular function or role,” “to fix or set (a time or place) for something to happen,” or “to make arrangements for (something).”
Associations
The word “appoint” is often associated with official or formal settings, such as appointments to government positions or business meetings. It can also be used in personal settings, such as appointing someone to be the executor of a will.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for appoint include designate, nominate, select, choose, assign, and decree.
Antonyms
Antonyms for appoint include dismiss, fire, discharge, remove, and reject.
The same root words
Other words that share the same root as appoint include appointment, which refers to a scheduled meeting or event, and disappoint, which means to fail to meet expectations or hopes.
Example Sentences
- Can we appoint a time to meet next week?.
- The committee appointed John to be the project manager.
- She was disappointed when she didn’t get the job she had been appointed to.
- The appointment with the doctor is at 2 pm.