from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Deputation \Dep`u*ta"tion\, n. [Cf. F. d['e]putation. See
{Depute}.]
1. The act of deputing, or of appointing or commissioning a
deputy or representative; office of a deputy or delegate;
vicegerency.
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The authority of conscience stands founded upon its
vicegerency and deputation under God. --South.
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2. The person or persons deputed or commissioned by another
person, party, or public body to act in his or its behalf;
delegation; as, the general sent a deputation to the enemy
to propose a truce.
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{By deputation}, or {In deputation}, by delegated authority;
as substitute; through the medium of a deputy. [Obs.]
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Say to great C[ae]sar this: In deputation
I kiss his conquering hand. --Shak.
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