Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Consigned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“ฆ
Add to dictionary

consigned

[kษ™nหˆsaษชnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

delivery agreement

To consign means to give over to another's care or control. This term is often used in commercial contexts where goods are transferred to an agent or a dealer for resale. When items are consigned, the sender retains ownership until the items are sold. It creates a relationship of trust between the consignor (the sender) and the consignee (the receiver). Consignment allows sellers to reach broader markets without directly taking ownership of the inventory.

Synonyms

assign, delegate, entrust.

Examples of usage

  • The artist consigned several paintings to the gallery.
  • Our company consigned products to various retailers to increase sales.
  • The store will sell your items on a consignment basis.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In commercial terms, consignment refers to a common practice where goods are sent to a retailer who pays the supplier upon sale.
  • The consignor retains ownership of the goods until they are sold, highlighting a trust agreement.
  • This arrangement allows sellers to reach wider markets without upfront costs.

Literature

  • In literature, the term can connote deeper themes of fate and destiny when characters are consigned to certain paths or actions.
  • Writers use the term metaphorically to express ideas of abandonment or giving over to a higher power.
  • Shakespeare's works often illustrate characters who find themselves consigned to fate, highlighting the tension between free will and destiny.

Psychology

  • The feeling of being consigned can lead to critical emotional responses, such as acceptance, resignation, or even liberation.
  • In psychological terms, being consigned can relate to coping mechanisms, where individuals prepare themselves for inevitable outcomes.
  • Understanding how people react to being consigned can enhance empathic communication and support.

Pop Culture

  • In films and books, characters often face moments where they are consigned to situations that lead to significant personal growth or change.
  • The idea of being consigned can also be portrayed in stories about sacrifice, such as heroes giving up something for the greater good.
  • Popular songs might use the term to convey themes of letting go or moving on from past situations.

Origin of 'consigned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'consignare', which means 'to mark with a sign'.
  • Its roots include 'con-', meaning 'together', and 'signare', meaning 'to sign'.
  • Over time, it evolved in English to include the idea of sending or entrusting something to another party.

The word 'consign' originates from the late Middle English term 'consignen', which comes from the Latin 'consignare'. In Latin, 'con-' means 'together' or 'with', and 'signare' means 'to mark or sign'. The combination implies marking something together with a specific purpose or trust in another's hands. Initially, the term was used in contexts involving official documentation, particularly concerning transferring goods. Over centuries, its usage broadened to encompass all forms of transferring responsibility or ownership, especially in trade and commerce. The concept of consignment has become integral in various industries, including art, retail, and shipping, where trust and accountability play crucial roles.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,622, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.