Definition of consignnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word consign distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of consign are commit, confide, entrust, and relegate. While all these words mean "to assign to a person or place for a definite purpose," consign suggests removing from one's control with formality or finality.

consigned the damaging notes to the fire

When is it sensible to use commit instead of consign?

While the synonyms commit and consign are close in meaning, commit may express the general idea of delivering into another's charge or the special sense of transferring to a superior power or to a special place of custody.

committed the felon to prison

When could confide be used to replace consign?

While in some cases nearly identical to consign, confide implies entrusting with great assurance or reliance.

confided complete control of my affairs to my attorney

In what contexts can entrust take the place of consign?

The words entrust and consign are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, entrust implies committing with trust and confidence.

the president is entrusted with broad powers

When would relegate be a good substitute for consign?

The synonyms relegate and consign are sometimes interchangeable, but relegate implies a consigning to a particular class or sphere often with a suggestion of getting rid of.

relegated to an obscure position in the company

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of consign Less than two years ago, British Prime Minister Starmer led his Labour party to its biggest majority in Parliament this century, consigning the Conservatives to their worst-ever defeat. Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 20 July 2026 Like the police report in Sebold’s assault, those cases had also been quickly consigned to the inactive file. ProPublica, 14 July 2026 According to New York investigators, the vase was smuggled out of Italy by Fritz Burki and consigned for sale at Christie’s London before entering the museum’s collection. Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 9 July 2026 The nation is already nearing last year’s record case total, and experts say the virus is forcing doctors to relearn a disease many thought had been consigned to history. Lena H. Sun, Washington Post, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for consign
Recent Examples of Synonyms for consign
Verb
  • The war, now stretching into its seventh month, has disrupted global energy supplies and sent shockwaves through global financial markets.
    Anniek Bao, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Aesha sends Kayley to deal with it, but a regular sink plunger can’t do the job — Nathan has to suction the stuff out with the wet vacuum.
    Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 1 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • First, the power goes out, leaving Bret wandering the halls as lights flicker around him.
    Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Top Gear has not been on air since 2022, but a return was always likely, given the BBC Studios franchise is too big to leave in the garage.
    Jake Kanter, Deadline, 27 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • In addition, Pitarch has been handed an improved contract and is now considered a first-team player, despite retaining a Castilla squad number.
    Andy Naylor, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Days after the government reopened, the department signed agreements handing billions in grant programs to other federal agencies.
    Sydney Lake, Fortune, 25 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Throughout his career, Satsky has been entrusted with highly confidential information involving some of the largest and most significant transactions in the energy and infrastructure sectors, his lawyer, Anello said.
    Chase Jordan August 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Now Norvell enters 2026 firmly on the hot seat, entrusting his future to another transfer quarterback.
    Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • His son, who is currently attending community college, hopes to transfer to UC Davis.
    Alula Alderson, Sacbee.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Cut corn kernels from cobs, and transfer kernels to a large bowl.
    Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 30 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Suggest the plan, capture the takeaways, and give everyone one clear action.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Utilizing quick, short passes, Hayes completed 14 of his first 16 attempts, including a 26-yard touchdown strike to sophomore tight end Ian Figi that gave Naperville Central a 14-0 lead.
    Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Davis delivered a strong preseason, but he is now likely headed to a redshirt rookie season unless injuries strike at tackle.
    Dan Duggan, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
  • Scientists around the world are anticipating the unprecedented insights Roman could deliver.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Goss voluntarily relinquished his Missouri law license and surrendered his right to practice law in Kansas.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 25 Aug. 2026
  • During her tenure, Miss USA 2023 Noelia Voigt and Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava relinquished their titles; Voigt had accused Rose of a toxic workplace culture.
    Michael Schneider, Variety, 21 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Consign.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/consign. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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