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. department store a large shop stocking many varieties of goods in different departments.
[ F département (as DEPART) ]