'deputy' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'deputé,' where 'de-' meant 'from' and 'puter' meant 'to think or consider.'

'deputé' transformed into the Middle English word 'deputee,' and eventually became the modern English word 'deputy.'

Initially, it meant 'appointed or assigned,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person appointed as a substitute with the power to act.'