officialdom

[ uh-fish-uhl-duhm ]

noun

1. the class or entire body of officials; officials as a whole.
2. the position or domain of officials.

officialdom

/ əˈfɪʃəldəm /

noun

1. the outlook or behaviour of officials, esp those rigidly adhering to regulations; bureaucracy
2. officials or bureaucrats collectively

Word History and Origins

Origin of officialdom¹

First recorded in 1860–65; official + -dom

Example Sentences

The findings were seen as vindication for those who found themselves facing down powerful officialdom, the state, and religious institutions - and often struggling to be believed.

From BBC

In fact, he believes officialdom in Mexico has deliberately placed obstacles in the relatives’ path to prevent them from reaching the truth.

From BBC

Ms Truss's letter is the latest salvo in a long-running battle with officialdom.

From BBC

The modest scale of his work, its whiff of the romantic past, puts it at odds with the epic proportions and air of officialdom of I.M.

From New York Times

From his new perch he will continue to torment officialdom — and surely endure some torment of his own.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• administration
• authority
• civil service
• management
• ministry
• red tape