Secretariat: meaning, definitions and examples

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secretariat

 

[ ˌsɛkrɪˈtɛrɪət ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

government position

A secretariat is a governmental body or office that is responsible for the administration and organization of a specific department or agency. It is typically led by a secretary or a group of secretaries who manage different functions within the organization. Secretariats facilitate communication between government entities and ensure that policies are accurately implemented. They play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of governmental operations.

Synonyms

administration, bureau, office.

Examples of usage

  • The United Nations has a large secretariat.
  • The secretary general oversees the secretariat's functions.
  • Each department has its own secretariat.
  • The secretariat is essential for administrative tasks.

Translations

Translations of the word "secretariat" in other languages:

🇵🇹 secretariado

🇮🇳 सचिवालय

🇩🇪 Sekretariat

🇮🇩 sekretariat

🇺🇦 секретаріат

🇵🇱 sekretariat

🇯🇵 事務局

🇫🇷 secrétariat

🇪🇸 secretaría

🇹🇷 sekreterlik

🇰🇷 사무국

🇸🇦 أمانة

🇨🇿 sekretariát

🇸🇰 sekretariát

🇨🇳 秘书处

🇸🇮 sekretariat

🇮🇸 skrifstofa

🇰🇿 хатшылық

🇬🇪 საიდუმლო

🇦🇿 katiblik

🇲🇽 secretaría

Etymology

The term 'secretariat' originates from the Latin word 'secretarius', which means 'secretary' or 'one entrusted with secrets'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to a body of administrative officials in charge of a specific operation or function within an organization. In the context of governmental functions, secretariats have been prominent since the 19th century, especially as bureaucracies expanded and the need for organized administration grew. The professionalization of secretariats in international organizations, such as the United Nations established in 1945, highlighted their importance in ensuring smooth operations and coherent policy implementation. Today, secretariats are foundational structures in both governmental and non-governmental organizations worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,441, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.