apparatchiks
|ap-pa-ratch-ik|
/ˌæpəˈrætʃɪk/
(apparatchik)
loyal bureaucratic functionary
Etymology
'apparatchik' originates from Russian, specifically the word 'аппаратчик' (apparatchik), derived from 'аппарат' ('apparat') meaning 'apparatus' or 'organization' with the suffix '-чик' denoting an agent or person associated with something.
'apparatchik' came into English in the mid-20th century from Russian 'аппаратчик', itself formed from 'аппарат' ('apparat') + agentive suffix '-чик'; the Russian term developed within Soviet political vocabulary referring to members of the party 'apparat' and was borrowed into English through political and journalistic contact.
Initially it meant 'a member of the party apparatus' (specifically a Communist party official), but over time it broadened and acquired a derogatory sense of 'an unquestioning bureaucrat' or 'party loyalist.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a member of a political organization or government administration, especially in a Communist party apparatus; a party official.
The apparatchiks met to coordinate the party's response to the crisis.
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Noun 2
derogatory: any bureaucrat or official who follows orders unquestioningly and puts organizational loyalty above independent judgment.
Many viewed the government's policies as the product of unthinking apparatchiks rather than creative leaders.
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Last updated: 2025/09/23 10:34