The definition of delegation is to entrust one's authority to which of the following?

Delegation refers to the process by which a person in a position of authority assigns specific responsibilities and decision-making power to another individual, typically a competent subordinate. This allows for more efficient operations within an organization by enabling leaders to focus on higher-level strategic tasks while empowering team members to take ownership of specific duties.

In this context, entrusting authority to a competent subordinate ensures that the tasks are handled effectively and that the subordinate possesses the requisite skills and knowledge to carry out the responsibilities effectively. Competent subordinates are typically familiar with the organization's goals and processes and are capable of making informed decisions within the scope of their delegated authority.

The other options present scenarios that do not fit the essence of delegation as it occurs within organizational structures. For instance, delegating authority to an external consultant may not align with internal organizational dynamics, and typically, a managerial superior would not be delegated authority from a subordinate but would rather exercise their own authority. Similarly, delegating to an associate peer could lead to ambiguity in authority and responsibilities, as peer relationships often do not involve one individual having the authority to direct another’s actions.