E*lect" (?), a. [L. electus, p. p. of eligere to elect; e out + legere to choose. See [Legend], and cf. [Elite], [Eclectic].]

1.

Chosen; taken by preference from among two or more.

"Colors quaint elect."

Spenser.

2. Theol.

Chosen as the object of mercy or divine favor; set apart to eternal life.

"The elect angels."

1 Tim. v. 21.

3.

Chosen to an office, but not yet actually inducted into it; as, bishop elect; governor or mayor elect.

© [Webster 1913].

E*lect", n.

1.

One chosen or set apart.

Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth. Is. xlii. 1.

2. pl. Theol.

Those who are chosen for salvation.

Shall not God avenge his won elect? Luke xviii. 7.

© [Webster 1913].

E*lect", v. t. [imp. & p. p. [Elected]; p. pr. & vb. n. [Electing].]

1.

To pick out; to select; to choose.

The deputy elected by the Lord. Shak.

2.

To select or take for an office; to select by vote; as, to elect a representative, a president, or a governor.

3. Theol.

To designate, choose, or select, as an object of mercy or favor.

Syn. -- To choose; prefer; select. See [Choose].

© [Webster 1913].

elect (definition)