from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Designate \Des"ig*nate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Designated}; p.
pr. & vb. n. {Designating}.]
1. To mark out and make known; to point out; to name; to
indicate; to show; to distinguish by marks or description;
to specify; as, to designate the boundaries of a country;
to designate the rioters who are to be arrested.
[1913 Webster]
2. To call by a distinctive title; to name.
[1913 Webster]
3. To indicate or set apart for a purpose or duty; -- with to
or for; as, to designate an officer for or to the command
of a post or station.
Syn: To name; denominate; style; entitle; characterize;
describe.
[1913 Webster]