Geheimrat was the title of the highest officials of a German royal or principal court, and also of very eminent professors in some German universities. It has its roots in 17th century Europe when governmental administration was established. The English language equivalent is Privy Councillor. An earlier title with similar function was Hofrat.
The title disappeared after the destruction of the German Empire in 1918, when the various royal courts in Germany were replaced by the Weimar Republic.
