Definition

Adjective: 1. Filled by popular election rather than by appointment: Describes a position, office, or role that is filled through a process where people vote, as opposed to being assigned or chosen by an authority figure.

Usage

The adjective "nonappointive" is used to classify or describe the method by which a person attains a specific public office or official role. It directly contrasts with "appointive."

Examples

• The mayor's position in this city is nonappointive; candidates must run in a public election every four years.
• While some judges are appointed by the governor, others hold nonappointive positions, having been elected by the citizens.
• The committee reviewed whether the vacant seat was an appointive or a nonappointive office.

Advanced Usage

• In legal/governmental contexts: The term is often used in official documents, constitutions, or statutes to specify the selection process for public offices.
  • The charter clearly states that all department heads shall hold nonappointive positions.

Variants and Related Words

• Appointive (adj): Filled by appointment rather than by election. This is the direct antonym.
  • An ambassador typically holds an appointive office.

Synonyms

• Elective
• Elected

Antonyms

• Appointive

Adjective

1. filled by popular election rather than by appointment