Apparatchik meaning

An apparatchik is a loyal member of a political party or organization who is typically unqualified for the position they hold.


Apparatchik definitions

Word backwards kihctarappa
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ap-pa-rat-chik
Plural The plural of the word apparatchik is apparatchiks.
Total letters 11
Vogais (2) a,i
Consonants (6) p,r,t,c,h,k

Apparatchik is a term originating from Russian, used to refer to a blindly loyal supporter or follower of a political party or system. In the context of Soviet Russia, an apparatchik was a government official or bureaucratic agent who was a key element in the enforcement and maintenance of the Communist Party's policies and ideals.

Origins and Meaning

The term apparatchik comes from the Russian word "аппаратчик" (apparat-chik), which means someone who works in an apparatus, referring to the workings of a machine or system. In the Soviet Union, apparatchiks formed the backbone of the Communist Party, carrying out the orders of the leadership and ensuring the implementation of party decisions at all levels of government.

Role and Characteristics

Apparatchiks were typically characterized by their unquestioning loyalty to the party, willingness to enforce policies without question, and their bureaucratic efficiency in carrying out orders. They occupied key positions in government, industry, and administrative bodies, often wielding significant power and influence behind the scenes.

Legacy and Modern Usage

While the term apparatchik originally referred to officials in the Soviet Union, it has since been adopted more broadly to describe loyalists or operatives within any political organization who prioritize party loyalty above personal beliefs or ethical considerations. In modern usage, an apparatchik may be seen as a negative term, implying blind obedience and lack of independent thought.

Overall, the concept of the apparatchik serves as a reminder of the dangers of unfaltering loyalty to a political party or ideology, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and individual conscience in the face of authority.


Apparatchik Examples

  1. The party leader surrounded himself with loyal apparatchiks to consolidate his power.
  2. The apparatchik was tasked with ensuring that all members of the committee followed the party line.
  3. She rose through the ranks quickly, thanks to her reputation as a hard-working apparatchik.
  4. The apparatchik's influence extended to all levels of government, making them a powerful figure behind the scenes.
  5. Despite outward appearances of unity, there were secret rivalries among the apparatchiks in the administration.
  6. The young party member aspired to become an apparatchik one day, wielding influence and power within the organization.
  7. The apparatchik was known for his strict adherence to party ideology, never wavering in his beliefs.
  8. She was appointed as an apparatchik in the department, responsible for overseeing the implementation of new policies.
  9. The apparatchik was seen as a gatekeeper, controlling access to the party leadership and decision-making process.
  10. He had been groomed from a young age to become an apparatchik, receiving special training and mentorship along the way.


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  • Updated 11/06/2024 - 04:21:07