Meaning & Definition of word "Undersecretary"

Undersecretary

/ˌʌndərˈsɛkrəˌtɛri/

noun:

  • 1. A government official who is subordinate to a secretary and typically handles specific administrative responsibilities or areas of policy.
    • Example: The undersecretary of education announced new guidelines for school funding.
  • 2. An official in a government department who assists the secretary and may stand in for them when necessary.
    • Example: During the meeting, the undersecretary represented the secretary who was unable to attend.
  • 3. A title used in various organizations to denote a position of authority below that of a secretary.
    • Example: 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

secretary:

An official in charge of a department or a person who handles correspondence.

administration:

The management of public affairs.

Slang Meanings of undersecretary

Meaning: Underboss

Example Sentence: In some political circles, the undersecretary is viewed as the underboss, key to executing directives.

Meaning: Bureaucrat

Example Sentence: Some refer to an undersecretary simply as a bureaucrat, emphasizing their administrative role.