1. a system of government in which most decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives
2. a large organization with many departments and complex rules and procedures
3. excessive official routine and red tape that causes delays and inefficiency
Usage: often used negatively

Examples

• The new policy got stuck in government bureaucracy for months.
• Large corporations often develop their own internal bureaucracy.
• She complained about the bureaucracy involved in getting a simple permit.
• The university’s bureaucracy made it difficult to change majors.
• He worked his way up through the federal bureaucracy.
• The company tried to reduce bureaucracy by streamlining procedures.
• Citizens grew frustrated with the slow-moving bureaucracy.