\Dep`u*ta"tion\, n. [Cf. F. d['e]putation. See
{Depute}.]
1. The act of deputing, or of appointing or commissioning a
   deputy or representative; office of a deputy or delegate;
   vicegerency.
         The authority of conscience stands founded upon its
         vicegerency and deputation under God. --South.
2. The person or persons deputed or commissioned by another
   person, party, or public body to act in his or its behalf;
   delegation; as, the general sent a deputation to the enemy
   to propose a truce.
{By deputation}, or {In deputation}, by delegated authority;
   as substitute; through the medium of a deputy. [Obs.]
         Say to great C[ae]sar this: In deputation I kiss his
         conquering hand.                      --Shak.