Definitions

1. noun

a member of a communist party’s apparatus, especially in the Soviet Union, often implying a loyal and unprincipled supporter

“The apparatchiki were seen as the backbone of the communist regime, but their loyalty came at a great personal cost.”

2. noun

a person in a position of authority or influence, especially in a bureaucratic or administrative capacity

“The apparatchiki in the government department were notorious for their red tape and bureaucratic delays.”