noun

1. something performed or intended to be performed for another; (specified kind of) service done through someone's good (or ill) offices
2. 1. a function or duty assigned to someone, esp. as an essential part of his or her work or position
   2. the function or characteristic action of a particular thing
3. a position of authority or trust, esp. in a government, business, institution, etc. the office of president
4. 1. ☆ any of the branches of the U.S. Government ranking next below the departments the Printing Office
   2. Chiefly Brit. a governmental department the Foreign Office
5. 1. the building, room, or series of rooms in which the affairs of a business, professional person, branch of government, etc. are carried on
   2. all the people working in such a place; staff
6. Chiefly Brit. the rooms or buildings of a house or estate in which the servants carry out their duties

7. Etymology: ME < ML(Ec) officium, divine rite < L, ceremonial observance

   a religious service or set of prayers; esp., Divine Office

Etymology: OFr < L officium < opificium, doing of work < opifex, a worker < opus, a work (see opus) + facere, to do