subgovernment

noun

sub·​gov·​ern·​ment ˌsəb-ˈgə-vər(n)-mənt How to pronounce subgovernment (audio)
-və-mənt;
-ˈgə-bᵊm-ənt,
-vᵊm-
variants or sub-government
plural subgovernments or sub-governments
: a secondary or subordinate government : an informal or unofficial association of persons or institutions that exercises considerable influence on a formal government or organization
It was an opportunity to enter the elite world of intellectuals and military men who form a subgovernment within the executive branch.Neil Sheehan
… a peek into the secret subgovernment of the Cold War.Richard Reeves

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of subgovernment was in 1841

Dictionary Entries Near subgovernment

Cite this Entry

“Subgovernment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subgovernment. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.

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