Definition

1. Noun:
   • A major administrative division of the U.S. federal government: A "department of the federal government" is a primary executive branch organization responsible for a broad area of national policy and administration, such as defense, treasury, or justice. Its head is typically a member of the President's Cabinet.

Usage

• This term is used to refer specifically to the main executive departments within the United States federal government.
• It is a formal, official term used in governmental, legal, and political contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The Department of State is a key department of the federal government responsible for foreign policy.
  • Funding for the new initiative must be approved by the relevant department of the federal government.

Advanced Usage

• "Cabinet-level department": This is a common synonym emphasizing that the department's secretary is a member of the President's Cabinet.
  • The Department of Homeland Security was created as a new Cabinet-level department.

Variants and Related Words

• Federal department: A more general term with the same meaning.
  • Each federal department has a specific mission set by Congress.
• Executive department: A term focusing on its place within the executive branch.
  • The power of an executive department is derived from the President.

Synonyms

• Cabinet department: Highlights the department's connection to the President's advisory body.
• Government agency (major): A broader term that can include these departments, though "agency" often refers to smaller, subordinate units.

Notes on Meaning

• This term is specific to the structure of the United States government. Other countries may have similar structures (e.g., ministries), but this phrase refers explicitly to the U.S. system.
• It does not refer to sub-divisions within these departments (like bureaus or offices) or to independent agencies (like the CIA or EPA).

Noun

1. a department of the federal government of the United States