dɪˈpɑ:tmənt n. 1 a
separate part of a
complex whole, esp.: a a
branch of
municipal or
State administration (Housing Department; Department of
Social Security). b a branch of
study and its administration at a
university, school, etc. (the
physics department). c a specialized
section of a
large store (hardware department). 2 colloq. an
area of
special expertise. 3 an
administrative district in France and
other countries. ødepartment store a large
shop stocking many varieties of goods in
different departments. [F d÷partement (as DEPART)]