Officials
əˈfɪʃəlz
Definitions
People who hold positions of authority or responsibility, often within an organization, government, or institution.
əˈfɪʃəlz
People holding positions of authority or responsibility
The officials of the United Nations are working to resolve the conflict.
💡 Simply: Officials are like the people in charge. Imagine the principal at your school or the person who referees your soccer game. They have important jobs and make decisions.
👶 For kids: Officials are like the boss people. They make rules and decisions!
More Examples
Election officials are responsible for counting the votes.
Sports officials reviewed the play to determine if it was a penalty.
How It's Used
"Government officials gathered to discuss the new policy."
"The referees, or officials, made a controversial call during the game."
"Company officials are reviewing the budget."
Synonyms
From Middle English *official*, from Old French *oficial* (adjective), from Latin *officialis* ('belonging to an office'), from *officium* ('office, duty').
The word has been used in various governmental and organizational contexts since at least the 14th century.
Memory tip
Think of people who have *offices* and a role to play.