yamen

American  

[yah-muhn] / ˈyɑ mən /

noun

1. (in the Chinese Empire) the residence or office of a public official.

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yamen British  

/ ˈjɑːmɛn /

noun

1. (in imperial China) the office or residence of a public official

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Etymology

Origin of yamen

1820–30; < Chinese yámen ( yá office + mén gate)

Example Sentences

After numerous inquiries they were directed to the yamen of the Tchentai, or military chief—a house with upcurling eaves, surrounded by a wall.

From Caravans By Night A Romance of India by Hervey, Harry

The palace is on a higher level even than the yamen of the Viceroy, and must intercept much of the good fortune that would otherwise flow into the city.

From An Australian in China Being the Narrative of a Quiet Journey Across China to Burma by Morrison, George Ernest

Then they both crossed the river and walked as fast as they could up to the yamen.

From Strange Stories from the Lodge of Leisures by Unknown

For two weeks Ida, with some other Chinese girls, was in hiding in the home of a friendly carpenter, while the missionaries were hidden in the governor's yamen.

From Notable Women of Modern China by Burton, Margaret E.

During his residence he had built for himself a splendid yamen of granite and marble.

From An Australian in China Being the Narrative of a Quiet Journey Across China to Burma by Morrison, George Ernest