Diplomatic
/ˌdɪp.ləˈmæt.ɪk/noun
Relating to the management of relations between countries, or tactful in dealing with people.
Did you know?Diplomatic ultimately comes from Greek diplōma, a folded official paper, from diploun, “to fold twice,” so the word’s earliest life was literally about a document carrying authority.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
δίπλωμα (diplōma)
“A folded paper or document, especially an official grant or license.”
Late Latin
Latin
diploma
“An official document, charter, or passport-like authorization.”
17th Century
French
diplomatique
“Relating to diplomas or official documents.”
17th Century
English
diplomatic
“Pertaining to official documents or statecraft.”
18th–19th Century
English
diplomatic
“Relating to the conduct of relations between states; tactful and skillful in handling people.”