power of appointment

American  

noun

Law.

1. the authority granted by a donor to a donee to select the person or persons who are to enjoy property rights or income upon the death of the donor or of the donee or after the termination of existing rights or interests.

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power of appointment British  

noun

1. property law authority to appoint persons either from a particular class ( special power ) or selected by the donee of the power ( general power ) to take an estate or interest in property

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Etymology

Origin of power of appointment

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

The power of appointment, although not exercised, defeats the spendthrift provision set forth in the Trust.

From Forbes • Aug. 23, 2014

The Constitution gives the president the power of appointment, for federal judges and cabinet members and other officials, and normally he must obtain the consent of the Senate for his choices.

From Slate • Jun. 26, 2014

That’s pretty much how the presidential power of appointment is supposed to work.

From Slate • Nov. 21, 2013

Into his job with its full power of appointment and dismissal stepped Joseph Vincent McKee, president of the Board of Aldermen.

From Time Magazine Archive

Goodrich answered that the office of foreign minister was created by the Constitution itself, and the power of appointment was placed in the President.

From Albert Gallatin American Statesmen Series, Vol. XIII by Stevens, John Austin