A secretary is a professional who provides administrative support to an individual or organization. The term 'secretary' can refer to a variety of roles, including a DESK clerk, MADAM, ESCRITOIRE, writing DESK, and cabinet official. A DESK clerk is a person who works at the front DESK of a business or organization, providing customer service and other administrative tasks. MADAM is a polite form of address for a woman in a position of authority. An ESCRITOIRE is a type of writing DESK with drawers and compartments for storing documents and other items. A writing DESK is a piece of furniture used for writing and other activities. A cabinet official is a person appointed by a government to a position in the executive branch of government.