Meaning & Definition of word "Bureaucrat"
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Bureaucrat
/ˈbjʊərəkræt/
noun:
- 1. An official who works in a bureaucracy, often characterized by adherence to rules and regulations.
- Example: The bureaucrat spent hours filling out forms to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
- 2. A person who is involved in the administrative system of government or organization, sometimes perceived as overly concerned with procedures.
- Example: Critics argued that the bureaucrat's rigid adherence to protocol hindered progress on the project.
- 3. A member of a bureaucracy, often employed by government, who wields power through their position and the system.
- Example: As a seasoned bureaucrat, she knew how to navigate the complex government structures to get results.
Etymology
From French 'bureaucrate', from 'bureau' meaning 'desk' and '-crat' meaning 'power'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
red tape:
Excessive regulation or rigid conformity to formal rules that hinders action or decision-making.
bureaucratic nightmare:
A situation involving complicated rules or processes that create excessive difficulty.
government bureaucrat:
An official working in government administration.
Related Words
bureaucracy:
A system of government or management characterized by a hierarchy of officials and an adherence to rules.
regulation:
A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority.
administration:
The process or activity of running a business, organization, etc.
Slang Meanings of bureaucrat
Meaning: paper pusher
Example Sentence: He’s just a paper pusher, not someone who actually gets things done.
Meaning: desk jockey
Example Sentence: As a desk jockey, she spends most of her time filling out forms.