Secretary: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used for someone who handles organizational and administrative tasks, often working for a high-level executive or a company.

• The secretary scheduled all the meetings for the CEO.
• The secretary organized the documents needed for the presentation.

A general term for someone who helps another person with daily tasks, which can vary widely depending on the job and industry.

• The research assistant gathered all the necessary data for the study.
• As an assistant, she manages her boss's calendar and travel plans.

Typically refers to someone working in an office or shop setting who handles routine administrative tasks such as filing, record keeping, or customer service.

• The accounting clerk recorded all the financial transactions for the week.
• The store clerk helped me find the right size for the shoes.

Specific to someone who works at the front desk of an office or building, managing incoming calls, visitors, and general inquiries.

• The receptionist greeted everyone with a smile and directed them to the appropriate office.
• As a receptionist, she handles all incoming phone calls and manages the visitor log.

Appropriate for someone who handles administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, answering phone calls, and managing paperwork in an office setting.

• The secretary scheduled the meeting for Monday
• Please ask the secretary for a copy of the report

Refers to a government or religious official. In politics, it typically denotes a high-ranking official in charge of a particular government department.

• The prime minister addressed the nation
• The health minister announced new regulations

Used for a person who oversees a particular area, department, or the entire organization. Commonly found in corporate, nonprofit, and artistic settings.

• The director of marketing presented the new campaign
• She became the new director of the film

Typically refers to a leader or head of a group, organization, or tribe. It denotes a higher rank and is often used in formal or hierarchical contexts.

• The fire chief coordinated the rescue efforts
• Chief executives are meeting to discuss the merger