Definition

Noun: - Head of a former executive department: The "Secretary of War" was the title for the head of the United States Department of War, a cabinet-level position responsible for the nation's land-based military affairs. This position existed until 1947, when it was combined with the Secretary of the Navy to create the position of Secretary of Defense.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Henry L. Stimson served as the Secretary of War during World War II.
  • The Secretary of War was a key advisor to the President on military matters.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term is used almost exclusively in a historical context to refer to the pre-1947 U.S. government position. It is not used for modern defense officials.
  • The office of the Secretary of War was established in 1789.

Variants and Related Words

• War Secretary: An informal, shortened variant of the title.
  • The War Secretary presented the annual report to Congress.

Synonyms

• Head of the War Department: A descriptive synonym.
• Cabinet Secretary for War: A formal alternative phrasing.

Notes on Meaning

This term refers specifically to a historical U.S. government office. It should not be confused with modern titles like "Secretary of Defense" or used to describe military officials in other countries. The role's responsibilities were subsumed under the Department of Defense after the National Security Act of 1947.

Noun

1. head of a former executive department; combined with the Navy Secretary to form the Defense Secretary in 1947