deputizes

Deputizes is the third-person singular form of deputize, meaning to appoint someone as a deputy or authorize them to act on another's behalf.

In law enforcement contexts, a sheriff might deputize civilians to assist in emergencies or form a posse.

More broadly, it describes delegating authority or responsibility to someone else: The manager deputized her assistant to handle the meeting.

The word carries connotations of temporary or conditional authority granted by someone with greater power.