Department (noun)

1. A large division of an organization, typically responsible for a specific area of activity.
2. A division of a government, typically responsible for a specific area of policy or administration.
3. A section of a large retail store or other commercial establishment devoted to a specific class of goods.
4. A division of a university or college, typically responsible for a specific area of study.

Origin:

Late 17th century: from french département, from departir "divide", from de- (expressing division) + partir "to divide".

Examples:

1. The company has several departments.
2. The department of defense.
3. The department store has a large shoe department.
4. He works in the physics department of the university.
5. The department is responsible for enforcing the law.