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Translate files Undersecretary
/ˌʌndərˈsɛkrəˌtɛri/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A government official who is subordinate to a secretary and typically handles specific administrative responsibilities or areas of policy.
The undersecretary of education announced new guidelines for school funding.
An official in a government department who assists the secretary and may stand in for them when necessary.
During the meeting, the undersecretary represented the secretary who was unable to attend.
A title used in various organizations to denote a position of authority below that of a secretary.
The undersecretary for international affairs played a key role in the negotiations.
Etymology
From the prefix 'under-' meaning 'below' and 'secretary', originating from Latin 'secretarius' meaning 'one entrusted with secrets'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
undersecretary of state:
An undersecretary in the department of state, often involved in foreign affairs.
acting undersecretary:
A person temporarily filling the role of undersecretary.
senior undersecretary:
A more experienced or higher-ranking undersecretary within a department.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
Underboss
In some political circles, the undersecretary is viewed as the underboss, key to executing directives.
Bureaucrat
Some refer to an undersecretary simply as a bureaucrat, emphasizing their administrative role.