Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
dictionary
thesaurus
view recents

ad-hocracy

noun
Save Word
ad-hoc·​ra·​cy | \ ˈad-ˈhäk-rə-sē, -ˈhōk-; ˈäd-ˈhōk- \
plural -es

Definition of ad-hocracy

: a temporary organization or committee set up to accomplish a specific task also : a system of government utilizing such organizations

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

First Known Use of ad-hocracy

1966, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for ad-hocracy

ad hoc entry 2 + -cracy

Keep scrolling for more

Learn More About ad-hocracy

Time Traveler for ad-hocracy

Time Traveler

The first known use of ad-hocracy was in 1966

See more words from the same year

Statistics for ad-hocracy

Cite this Entry

“Ad-hocracy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ad-hocracy. Accessed 18 Jun. 2021.

Style: MLA
MLACheck Mark Icon ChicagoCheck Mark Icon APACheck Mark Icon Merriam-WebsterCheck Mark Icon

WORD OF THE DAY

calumny

Listen to the pronunciation of calumny

See Definitions and Examples »

Test Your Vocabulary

Name that Thing: Dog Breeds

  • any of a breed of small compact heavy-boned dogs developed in france and having erect ears
  • Name that dog!
True or False

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ
Universal Daily Crossword

A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.

TAKE THE QUIZ
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games