appointed

The word “appointed” means chosen officially for a role, rather than elected. In plain terms, officially chosen for a position, or set in advance (as with a time).

“Appointed” is pronounced uh-POYN-tihd (/əˈpɔɪntɪd/ in IPA).

Here is “appointed” used in a sentence: “The mayor is elected, but the deputy mayor is appointed.”

“Appointed” is an adjective.

“Appointed” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Appointed” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: chosen officially for a role, rather than elected.

Someone appointed is chosen for a role by a person or body with the authority to do so — a leader, board or committee. Someone elected is chosen by a vote, usually of the public or of members. Appointment reflects the judgement of those in charge; election reflects the choice of the voters.

Judges in many countries are appointed rather than elected, as are government ministers, ambassadors, and members of company boards and public committees. In each case a person or body with the power to decide selects the individual for the role, instead of the post being filled by a popular vote.

Not necessarily — they simply draw their authority from different sources. Appointment allows expertise and experience to be prioritised and can shield a role from short-term politics, which is why judges are often appointed. Elected roles carry a direct public mandate. Each suits different kinds of responsibility.