Consulars

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Pertaining to the role or functions of a diplomatic representative assigned to manage affairs for their country abroad
2. Relating to the duties and responsibilities of an official serving as a representative in foreign nations
3. Associated with the actions and services provided by officials who assist citizens and facilitate diplomatic relations in another country

Etymology: "Consulars" is simply the plural of "consular," a noun used for people who held consular rank or served as consuls. The adjective "consular" entered Middle English from Latin "cōnsulāris," which is built from "cōnsul," the Latin word for the chief magistrate of the Roman Republic, with the suffix "-āris" marking a connection to that office. The Latin "cōnsul" was itself a title for the two annually elected leaders of Rome, and the adjective simply tied anything to that office. The meaning narrowed over time. A consul in the modern sense is an official stationed abroad to protect a country's citizens and commercial interests, so "consular" now covers the duties of that foreign posting. The Roman magistracy and the diplomatic post share a name but are otherwise separate offices, and the plural form is mainly used when speaking of more than one such official or their duties.

Synonyms: diplomats, representatives, envoys