Ambassador

Definition

Ambassador refers to an official representative of a country, appointed to represent its government in a foreign nation or international organization. In a broader sense, it can also mean a person who acts as a representative or promoter of a specific activity, cause, or organization.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /æmˈbæsədər/
• Respelling: am-BAS-uh-der

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /æmˈbæsədə/
• Respelling: am-BAS-uh-duh

The pronunciation of "ambassador" is similar in both American and British English, with a slight difference in the ending vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "ambassador" originates from the Middle French "ambassadeur," which came from the Old Italian "ambasciatore," meaning "messenger" or "representative." Its roots trace back to the Latin "ambactus," meaning "servant" or "attendant." The term entered English in the late 14th century, referring to diplomatic representatives sent between sovereign states.

Derivatives

• Ambassadorship (noun)
• Ambassadorial (adjective)
• Embassy (noun)
• Ambassade (noun, archaic)
• Ambassadorialism (noun, rare)

Synonyms

• Envoy
• Diplomat
• Representative

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "ambassador" is commonly used in both diplomatic and informal contexts. In government, an ambassador is a high-ranking diplomat assigned to represent their country in a foreign state, handling political, economic, and cultural relations. Informally, "ambassador" can refer to someone who promotes a particular brand, cause, or organization, as in "brand ambassador." This usage emphasizes the idea of acting as a representative or public advocate.

Related Terms

• Diplomacy: The practice of managing international relations and negotiations between countries.
• Embassy: The official residence or offices of an ambassador in a foreign country.
• Consul: An official appointed to represent and protect a country’s citizens in a foreign city.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An official representative of a country appointed to represent it abroad: Refers to a government official who handles diplomatic relations and foreign affairs in a host country.
  • Example: "The ambassador met with leaders to discuss trade agreements."
• A person who acts as a representative or promoter of a specific cause or organization: Used to describe someone who advocates for a brand, movement, or cause.
  • Example: "She was appointed as an ambassador for environmental conservation."