Definition

A person who works in a government or organization and follows strict rules and procedures.

Example

The bureaucrat spent hours filling out forms to ensure everything was done correctly.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new bureaucrat in town?

Yeah, I heard he's really strict about the rules.

I wonder how he feels about making changes to the system.

Probably hesitant; most bureaucrats prefer sticking to procedures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bureaucrat → It is formed from "bureau" (from French, meaning desk or office) and "-crat" (from Greek "kratos", meaning power or rule). The word "bureaucrat" refers to a person who holds power or authority in an office or administrative setting.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'desk' ('bureau') where someone has 'power' ('kratos') to make decisions — that's what a bureaucrat does.

Visually Confused Words