noun

designation

dez-ig-NAY-shuhn/ˌdezɪɡˈneɪʃn/

An official naming for a category or purpose.

The official designation places the contestant in the group wearing matching uniforms.

At an official registration table, a clerk places one contestant into a specific group with matching uniforms while other contestants remain in separate groups, making the assigned classification visible.

Etymology

deLatinout

+signLatinto mark

+ationLatinaction or process

The pieces describe an act of “marking out.” This became selecting and appointing, while the naming sense identifies someone or something through a descriptive label, title, or occupation.

In context

Ben Wellington8:56

They would park there, and the NYPD disagreed with this designation and would ticket them.

How we found the worst place to park in New York City -- using big data

University of Nebraska State Museum presenter0:24

The designation reinforces the close relationship this museum has with the Smithsonian.

Smithsonian Affiliation

More examples

Her designation as team leader takes effect Monday.
The land's agricultural designation prevents commercial development.
These chemicals carry official designations that identify their hazard categories.

Forms

designation · designations

designate verb — To officially name, classify, or select.

Similar words

classification: Classification sorts things into categories without necessarily assigning official status.
appointment: Appointment specifically selects someone for a position or duty.
title: A title names a position or status rather than assigning it.