officialism

noun

of·​fi·​cial·​ism ə-ˈfi-shə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce officialism (audio)
ō-
: lack of flexibility and initiative combined with excessive adherence to regulations in the behavior of usually government officials

Word History

Etymology

official entry 1 + -ism

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of officialism was in 1854

Dictionary Entries Near officialism

Cite this Entry

“Officialism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/officialism. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024.

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