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noun Uncommon

deposition

dehp-uh-ZIHSH-uhn

Deposition (noun) means the formal removal of someone from a position of power or office. Example: “The deposition of the president shocked the international community.”

noun
1
The formal removal of someone from a position of power or office.
"The deposition of the president shocked the international community."
2
A formal, sworn statement of testimony given outside a courtroom, usually during legal proceedings.
"Her deposition lasted more than six hours."
3
The natural process by which material such as sediment, snow, or frost settles or builds up somewhere.
"Over centuries, the deposition of sediment formed the river delta."

How to use deposition

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRemoving someone from power, giving sworn legal testimony, or material gradually settling in one place.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
give a deposition sediment deposition the deposition of the king

Word forms

depositions plural

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The _____ of the president shocked the international community.

Etymology

From Old French deposicion, from Latin depositio, related to "deposit" and "depose" (whose meanings became historically intertwined).

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for deposition

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Frequently asked questions

What does “deposition” mean?

The word “deposition” means the formal removal of someone from a position of power or office. In plain terms, removing someone from power, giving sworn legal testimony, or material gradually settling in one place.

How do you pronounce “deposition”?

“Deposition” is pronounced dehp-uh-ZIHSH-uhn (/ˌdɛp.əˈzɪʃ.ən/ in IPA).

How do you use “deposition” in a sentence?

Here is “deposition” used in a sentence: “The deposition of the president shocked the international community.”

What is the opposite of “deposition”?

The opposite of “deposition” — its antonyms — are erosion, corrosion and sublimation.

What part of speech is “deposition”?

“Deposition” is a noun.

Where does the word “deposition” come from?

The word “deposition” comes from Latin. From Old French deposicion, from Latin depositio, related to "deposit" and "depose" (whose meanings became historically intertwined).

Is “deposition” a common word?

“Deposition” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “deposition” have?

“Deposition” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the formal removal of someone from a position of power or office.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial