encargada

Encargada is the feminine form of the Spanish noun and adjective encargar/encargado, used to denote a person who has been entrusted with a responsibility or who holds a position with decision-making authority in a particular area or organization. The masculine counterpart is encargado. As a job-related term, it often refers to someone who supervises, administers, or oversees operations within a defined scope.

Etymology and usage: Encargar comes from the verb encargar, meaning to entrust or assign responsibility. The suffix -ada in this context forms a noun that designates the person who occupies the role. In everyday usage, encargar is followed by a prepositional phrase indicating the area of responsibility, such as encargo de compras (purchasing manager) or encargada de tienda (store manager).

Context and scope: The role implied by encargar/a varies by organization and country. It can be a formal job title, a temporary assignment, or a descriptive label for someone responsible for a function—for example, the encargada de atención al cliente or la encargada del proyecto. Responsibilities typically include supervising staff, ensuring operational smoothness, coordinating activities, and representing the entity in specific matters.

Gender and language notes: Encargada specifically refers to a female holder of the role. In mixed-gender or unknown contexts, speakers may use encargo/a or la persona encargada to avoid gender assumptions. The term is widely used in Spanish-speaking workplaces, retail, and public administration to identify the person responsible for a given area.