Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

petty-official

noun
/ˈpɛti əˈfɪʃəl/
Definition
A minor bureaucrat or government employee who holds little authority and is often seen as insignificant in the larger context of governance or administration.
Examples
  • The petty-official was responsible for processing the thousands of forms that flooded the office daily.
  • Many felt that the decisions made by the petty-official had little impact on their lives.
  • Despite his position as a petty-official, he took his job seriously and tried to help those he served.
Meaning
Refers to a low-ranking official whose role involves managing trivial matters within an organization or government, often lacking influence in decision-making processes.
Synonyms
  • Minor official
  • Bureaucrat
  • Clerk
  • Functionary