bureau
- 1A part of a government that does a certain kind of work.
My aunt got a job at a government bureau in the capital.
The bureau that handles driver's licenses was closed on Monday.
UsagePlural: bureaus or bureaux.
Similaragency, department, office
- 2
- 3A piece of furniture with drawers where you keep your clothes.
My socks are in the top drawer of the bureau.
We put a lamp and some photos on top of the bureau.
UsageIn Britain a bureau is a writing desk. Chest of drawers is clear everywhere.
Similardresser
Less common meanings
- 4A desk, often with a lid, that has small spaces for papers above the part where you write.
Gran lifted the lid of her bureau and sat down to write a letter.
He pulled down the lid of the bureau and started writing.
UsageIn America a bureau holds clothes instead.
Similardesk
Note
- 5A room where someone does office work or the work of their job.
Nick opened the bureau door and told Joan he was going to find Susan. He walked to the cafeteria, but it was empty. He went back to the bureau, and asked Joan to check the restrooms.
2015, Dan Riker, The Blue Girl Murders
Practice
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Origin
It comes from French. The French word first meant a rough cloth used to cover a desk.
Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 2 facts
- English bureau comes from French. en.wiktionary.org
- The French word originally meant a rough cloth used to cover a desk. en.wiktionary.org