noun

• The act of establishing; a ratifying or ordaining; settlement; confirmation.
• The state of being established, founded, etc.; fixed state.
• That which is established; as a form of government, a permanent organization, business or force, or the place where one is permanently fixed for residence.
• (usually with "the") The ruling class or authority group in a society; especially, an entrenched authority dedicated to preserving the status quo. Also Establishment.
• The number of staff required to run a department or organisation (often used in the context of healthcare and other public services).
• (Christianity) The institution and official status of a church as a state church, especially that of the Church of England and historically of Ireland.
• Alternative form of establishment (“ruling class”) [The act of establishing; a ratifying or ordaining; settlement; confirmation.]