What does secretary mean?
A secretary is a person who assists an individual or organization with administrative work, especially correspondence, record-keeping, meeting arrangements, and clerical tasks. The word can also denote a senior official position, as in “secretary general,” “secretary of state,” or the secretary of a political organization. Although the role has changed considerably over time, the idea of confidential support remains central to many uses of the title. In American English, “secretary” commonly means an administrative assistant, while British English also uses it for a government minister responsible for a particular department. The word can additionally identify a bird, the secretary bird, a striking African bird of prey known for its long legs and crest feathers. Together, these senses reflect the word’s long history in both practical office work and formal institutional roles.
A person employed to assist with clerical work, correspondence, record-keeping, and other administrative tasks.
"I sent the documents to my secretary to arrange in the meeting folder."
Often used in formal job titles and organizational contexts.
An official holding a senior administrative or governmental position, or communicating an organization’s official views.
"The secretary general welcomed delegates to the annual conference."
Common in governmental, political, and institutional titles such as “secretary of state” and “secretary general.”
The secretary bird, a large African bird of prey with long legs, a crest, and distinctive black-and-white plumage.
"A secretary bird stood motionless near the grass, watching for prey."
Usually occurs in the compound “secretary bird.”
The standard plural of “secretary” is “secretaries.”
"The secretaries coordinated the schedules of both senior officials."
What began as a keeper of confidential information eventually became one of the most recognizable job titles in offices, governments, and organizations worldwide.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of secretary
“Secretary” comes through Old French from Latin secretarius, an official concerned with confidential matters. The Latin word was derived from secretum, meaning “a secret” or “something hidden,” with the suffix -arius expressing an occupation or role. The English word originally referred to a person entrusted with confidential matters before developing into its modern administrative and governmental senses.
Related word forms
How secretary is actually used
In modern British and American usage, “secretary” usually refers to an administrative assistant or an official officeholder. The title can sound formal or traditional in government and institutional contexts. In the bird sense, it is normally used in the compound “secretary bird.”
Easily confused with secretary
A secretary is a person who holds an administrative or official role, whereas a secretariat is the department or organization that performs administrative functions.