Emissary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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emissary

[หˆษ›mษชหŒsษ›ri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

diplomacy

A person sent on a special mission, usually as a diplomatic representative.

Synonyms

ambassador, delegate, envoy.

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Word Description / Examples
emissary

Used when referring to a person sent on a special mission, usually as a diplomatic representative. This word often carries an implication of secrecy or confidential tasks.

  • The king sent his most trusted emissary to negotiate the peace terms.
  • As an emissary, she had to convey crucial information to the neighboring country.
ambassador

Appropriate in formal contexts when referring to a high-ranking official who represents their country in another nation. Ambassadors usually reside in embassies and deal with diplomatic matters.

  • She was appointed as the US ambassador to France.
  • The ambassador held a meeting to discuss international trade agreements.
envoy

Similar to 'emissary,' typically used for someone sent on a special mission, but not necessarily secretive. Often used in political and diplomatic contexts.

  • The president appointed a special envoy to the Middle East to mediate the conflict.
  • An envoy was dispatched to discuss the new trade treaty.
delegate

Best used when referring to a person chosen or elected to act for others, typically at meetings or conferences. This word suits political or general organizational contexts.

  • Each country sent a delegate to the environmental summit.
  • He was elected as a delegate to represent the union members.

Examples of usage

  • The president appointed an emissary to negotiate the peace treaty.
  • The emissary delivered the message from the foreign government.
Context #2 | Noun

fantasy

A supernatural being or spirit often sent by a higher power to deliver a message or perform a task.

Synonyms

angel, messenger, spirit.

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Word Description / Examples
emissary

Used when referring to someone sent on a specific mission, typically as an official representative of another person or organization.

  • The king sent his emissary to negotiate peace with the neighboring kingdom.
  • The companyโ€™s emissary was tasked with securing the new partnership deal.
messenger

Used for someone who carries messages or information from one person or place to another. It can be used in various contexts including formal and casual scenarios.

  • The messenger delivered the urgent letter to the general.
  • In ancient times, messengers traveled long distances on foot or horseback.
angel

Commonly used in both religious contexts to refer to celestial beings, and in everyday language as a term for someone who is kind or helpful.

  • She was an angel, always helping others without asking for anything in return.
  • According to the story, an angel appeared to deliver the divine message.
spirit

Used to refer to non-physical entities or beings, often in religious, supernatural, or metaphorical contexts. It can also indicate the essence or vital force of something.

  • They believed the forest was inhabited by ancient spirits.
  • Her spirit was unbroken despite the many challenges she faced.

Examples of usage

  • The mystical emissary appeared in a dream to guide the hero on his quest.
  • The emissary of light fought against the forces of darkness.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Emissaries have played crucial roles in historical treaties, such as the emissaries sent by various kingdoms to negotiate peace.
  • In ancient Rome, government officials often served as emissaries to communicate with conquered regions.
  • During the Cold War, emissaries were pivotal in easing tensions through backdoor communications.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, emissaries often appeared as characters who delivered important news or messages, impacting the plot.
  • Many classic literary works feature emissaries as a device to explore themes of loyalty and betrayal.
  • The archetype of the emissary is common in epic tales where characters are tasked with delivering messages pivotal to the story.

Pop Culture

  • In modern films and television, emissaries are often portrayed as spies or diplomats, highlighting their secretive and high-stakes roles.
  • Popular video games sometimes include emissary characters, who send players on quests that involve negotiation and information gathering.
  • Comic book narratives often use emissaries as intermediaries between superheroes and their allies, enhancing plot development.

Origin of 'emissary'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'emissarius', meaning 'sent out' or 'messenger'.
  • It is derived from 'emittere', which combines 'e-' (out) and 'mittere' (to send), emphasizing the idea of sending someone out.
  • The term has been used in English since the 15th century, illustrating its longstanding use in diplomacy and communication.

The word 'emissary' originates from the Latin 'emissarius', which means 'sent out'. It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. The concept of emissaries has been prevalent throughout history, with various cultures using messengers or agents to convey important messages or represent their interests.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,199, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.