# undersecretary

/ˌəndɝˈsɛkɹɪˌtɛɹi/ (US) · /ˌʌndəsˈɛkɹətɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/undersecretary
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a high-ranking official who helps a minister or secretary in a government department. This person is usually the second-in-command and manages the daily work of the office.

For teachers: a high-ranking administrative official who serves as the deputy to a minister or secretary in a government department. Often responsible for the day-to-day operations and policy implementation within the ministry.

## Examples

- The undersecretary manages the daily operations of the department.
- After the minister resigned, the undersecretary took over the lead role in the cabinet meeting.
- The undersecretary of state for economic affairs played a pivotal role in negotiating the trade agreement, acting as the primary liaison between the two delegations during the final week of talks.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.