Dictionary.net

red'-t[=a]p, n. the red tape used in public, and esp. government, offices for tying up documents, &c.: applied satirically to the intricate system of routine in vogue there: official formality.--adj. pertaining to official formality.--ns. RED'-T[=A]'PISM, the system of routine in government and other public offices; RED'-T[=A]'PIST, a great stickler for routine.

n. Tape for tying up lotters, documents, parcels, &c;- usually of a red colour in public and government offices;- hence, official forms; system of routine; adherence to established practice and precedent; application of the same rules and forms to all cases without reference to the special circumstance, necessities, &c., of each:- also written red-tapism.