adhocracy

/ədˈhɒkɹəsi/

Etymology

From ad hoc + -cracy, by analogy with bureaucracy; coined by American organizational consultant Warren Bennis (1925–2014) and American sociologist Philip Slater (1927–2013) in The Temporary Society (1964), and popularized by American futurist Alvin Toffler (1928–2016) in his book Future Shock (1970).

Why this word is great

ADHOCRACY — [Noun] An organizational system designed for rapid adaptation, prioritizing flexibility and situational problem-solving over rigid hierarchies. From ad hoc ("for this purpose") + -cracy ("system of rule"), modeled after bureaucracy. Unlike bureaucracy (with its fixed protocols) or meritocracy (which rewards static excellence), adhocracy thrives on fluid roles, decentralized authority, and improvisation—ideal for tech startups, emergency response teams, and any arena where chaos demands creative structure.

noun

  1. An organizational system designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs of the moment rather than excessively bureaucratic.“This is a picture of the coming Ad-hocracy, the fast-moving, information-rich, kinetic organization of the future, filled with transient cells and extremely mobile individuals […]”