bureau

bu-reau · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A government department or agency.

  2. 2.

    An office or organization providing specific services.

  3. 3.

    [British]A writing desk with drawers.

  4. 4.

    [American]A chest of drawers, especially for bedroom use.

Forms

plural: bureaus

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bureau de change — A place to exchange currency.
  • •
    better business bureau — An organization promoting business ethics.

Related words

See also: agency, department, desk, office
Synonyms: agency, department, desk, office

Etymology

From French "bureau" (desk, office), originally referring to a coarse cloth used to cover desks, from Old French "burel" (woolen cloth).