officialdom

noun

of·​fi·​cial·​dom ə-ˈfi-shəl-dəm How to pronounce officialdom (audio)
ō-
: officials as a class

Examples of officialdom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Another turning point: After a deliberate Russian missile strike slaughtered nine children in a playground in Zelenskyy’s hometown, Trump officialdom decided the formal condolence note sent by the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv should not blame Russia for the attack. Trudy Rubin, Twin Cities, 23 May 2025 The draft order envisioned that the top three layers of Baathist leaders would be excised from Iraq’s future officialdom and that those in the fourth layer would be considered on a case-by-case basis. Garrett M. Graff, Foreign Affairs, 5 May 2023 It’s become painfully obvious in recent years that California officialdom lacks the ability to plan and deliver major projects. Dan Walters, Mercury News, 26 Apr. 2025 Critical components The exemptions aren’t the first time Beijing has come to the aid of its tech sector, which is starting to enjoy a closer relationship with officialdom after a years-long regulatory crackdown. John Liu, CNN Money, 25 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for officialdom

Word History

Etymology

official entry 1 + -dom

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of officialdom was in 1863

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Officialdom.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/officialdom. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

officialdom

noun
of·​fi·​cial·​dom ə-ˈfish-əl-dəm How to pronounce officialdom (audio)
: officials as a class
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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