WordGarden.ioemissary
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛmɪsəri/
US
- /ˈɛməˌsɛri/
Meanings
Noun
a representative sent on a mission, especially to deliver a message or negotiate
Beyond the definition
Imagine a king needing to speak with a neighboring queen, but he cannot go himself. So he sends someone in his place - that person is an emissary. It is a person sent to speak, carry a message, or represent someone else on a special task, often in politics or between groups. This person may help with talks, pass on important news, or speak for the person who sent them. In the past, such people were important for peace and state matters. Today, you might hear about one being sent to peace talks or to help after a disaster.
The word "emissary" comes from the Latin emittere, meaning "to send out." It describes someone dispatched by a government, organization, or individual to carry out a specific task – usually involving communication, negotiation, or representation. While often associated with formal diplomatic missions, an emissary doesn't necessarily have to be an official government representative.
An emissary can be sent for various purposes: to deliver a message, gather information, negotiate a deal, build relationships, or even simply observe a situation. They act as the eyes and ears of their sender, conveying intentions and reporting back on developments. The context is key – an emissary isn't just any messenger; they are sent with a specific purpose and carry significant weight due to who they represent.
Historically, emissaries were crucial for maintaining communication between kingdoms and empires. Think of ambassadors, envoys, or special delegates. In modern times, the term might be used more broadly. A humanitarian organization might send an emissary to assess needs in a disaster-stricken area. A company might dispatch an emissary to explore potential business partnerships.
Here are some examples:
- "The President sent his top advisor as an emissary to the peace talks."
- "A special emissary from the United Nations arrived to monitor the election."
- "She acted as an emissary between the warring factions, hoping to broker a truce."
Examples
- 1
Diplomacy
The president sent an emissary to the capital for last-minute peace talks.
- 2
Workplace mediation
She acted as an emissary between the two departments when they stopped speaking to each other.
- Patternact as an emissary between A and B
represent one side while carrying messages to the other
- 3
Cultural representation
The artist became an unofficial emissary for her hometown during the international tour.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- messenger
- ambassador
- plenipotentiary
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- send an emissary
- dispatch an emissary
- secret emissary
- emissary of peace
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- emissarynounadjective
Forms
- emissariespluralnounadjective
- emissariercomparativeadjectivenoun
- emissariestsuperlativeadjectivenoun