Appoint Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Legal Context

• In law, an appointment often refers to the act of designating someone to a position, such as a judge or a trustee.
• Many organizations require formal procedures for appointments to ensure transparency and fairness.
• In some countries, appointments are often made with advice from legislative bodies to maintain a balance of power.

Cultural Significance

• Different cultures have unique ceremonies for appointing leaders, showcasing traditions and values.
• In many communities, important appointments are celebrated with gatherings or special announcements.
• Historical appointments, like that of kings or chiefs, were often accompanied by rituals to signify the transition of power.

Modern Usage

• In today’s workplaces, appointments are often linked to titles and job descriptions, with clarity in expectations.
• Social media has influenced appointment announcements, making them more public and immediate.
• Many companies use technology to streamline the appointment process, making it more efficient.

Psychology

• The act of appointing someone can impact their self-esteem and motivation, especially in professional settings.
• Research shows that clear appointments tend to enhance teamwork and collaboration among employees.
• People often feel a sense of responsibility when appointed to a role, which can drive them to perform better.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Latin 'appoinctere,' meaning 'to bring together or assign.'
• In Middle English, 'appointen' was used in both legal and personal contexts, showing how appointments were essential then too.
• Initially, the term was used for a range of purposes, from formal roles to simple agreements.

The word 'appoint' originated from the Old French word 'apointier', meaning 'to arrange, settle, or place'. It entered the English language in the 14th century with the sense of 'to fix a time for'. Over time, it evolved to include the meanings of assigning roles or positions. The use of 'appoint' in the context of scheduling meetings also became common.

See also: appointable, appointed, appointee, appointment, disappoint, disappointed.

Ranking #3,940, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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