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elect

When used as a verb meaning 'to choose,' it is often followed by an infinitive (e.g., "elect to stay") or a noun phrase. As an adjective, the word 'elect' usually comes after the noun it describes, such as in "president-elect" or "mayor-elect," to indicate that the person has won the election but hasn't started the job yet. When used as a noun referring to a privileged group (the elect), it is almost always used with the definite article 'the' and functions as a plural noun.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is in a high-stress corporate meeting while Eleanor is at her bridge club.
Eleanor Smith

DAVID WHO DID THE CLUB ELECT FOR PRESIDENT?? I CANT FIND THE PAPER

Eleanor Smith
David Smith
David Smith

Mom, I'm in a meeting. Just touch base with Martha.

💡
Eleanor is using all caps due to her lack of tech literacy. David uses the corporate phrasal verb 'touch base' (to briefly make contact or consult), reflecting his persona as a regional manager who overuses business jargon even with family.

Meanings

verb (transitive)

To select someone or something for a position, office, or duty by vote.

"The committee will elect a new chairperson next Tuesday."

verb (transitive)

To choose to do something; to make a decision to follow a particular course of action.

"He decided to elect the option of early retirement."

adjective

Chosen or selected, often referring to someone who has been elected but not yet entered into office.

"The president-elect gave a speech regarding her future goals for the country."

noun

A group of people chosen by God to be saved, or a select group of privileged individuals.

"In some theological traditions, only the elect are destined for salvation."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error