1. the administrative and organizational structure of a political party, government, or other institution, especially one regarded as rigid or bureaucratic
Usage: often used in reference to Soviet or communist systems; formal or academic register

Examples

• The party apparat controlled all major decisions in the government.
• She rose through the ranks of the Communist apparat during the Cold War.
• The apparat was known for its rigid hierarchical structure.
• Reformers struggled against the entrenched apparat of the old regime.
• The apparat maintained tight control over information and resources.