Langimage
English

officials

|of-fi-cials|

B2

/əˈfɪʃəlz/

(official)

authorized duty

Base FormPluralNounNoun
officialofficialsofficialsofficialdom
Etymology
Etymology Information

'official' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'officialis,' where 'officium' meant 'duty or service.'

Historical Evolution

'officialis' transformed into the Old French word 'official,' and eventually became the modern English word 'official.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to duty or service,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person holding a position of authority.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

persons holding a position of authority in an organization or government.

The officials met to discuss the new policy.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45