Diplomates

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A person engaged in diplomacy, representing their country in foreign relations
2. an individual skilled in tact and negotiation within political contexts
3. a diplomat or representative who works to maintain international relations and agreements

Etymology: "Diplomates" is the plural of "diplomate," a noun formed from "diploma" plus the suffix "-ate," which denotes a rank or office. The "diploma" part comes from Greek "diplōma," meaning a folded document, from "diploun," to fold, which itself derives from "diplous," double. A folded paper was a sealed official document, so a diploma was originally a certificate of standing. Adding "-ate" turned that document into a title for a person holding a formal post, and the plural names the holders of that post in the foreign service.

Synonyms: diplomats, envoys, ambassadors, delegates