IPA: /ˌsɛkrəˈtɛrɪət/
KK: /sɪˈkrɛtərɪət/
A department or office managed by a secretary, often in a government or international organization.
The secretariat is responsible for coordinating the activities of the organization.
Secretariat → It is formed from "secretarius" (meaning secretary or one who keeps secrets) and the suffix "-at" (indicating a place or office). The word "secretariat" refers to the office or department of a secretary, where secretarial duties are performed.
Think of a 'secretary' who keeps important information safe — that's why a 'secretariat' is the office where such work is done.