emissary

[ em-uh-ser-ee ]

noun

, plural em·is·sar·ies.

1. a representative sent on a mission or errand:

   emissaries to negotiate a peace.

   Synonyms: legate, envoy, ambassador, delegate

2. an agent sent on a mission of a secret nature, as a spy.
3. Anatomy. sending or coming out, as certain veins that pass through the skull and connect the venous sinuses inside with the veins outside.
4. pertaining to an emissary.

adjective

1. Archaic. sent forth, as on a mission.

emissary

/ ˈɛmɪsərɪ; -ɪsrɪ /

noun

1. 1. an agent or messenger sent on a mission, esp one who represents a government or head of state
   2. ( as modifier )

      an emissary delegation

2. an agent sent on a secret mission, as a spy

adjective

1. (of veins) draining blood from sinuses in the dura mater to veins outside the skull

Word History and Origins

Origin of emissary¹

1595–1605; < Latin ēmissārius one sent out, equivalent to ēmiss- ( emission ) + -ārius -ary

Word History and Origins

Origin of emissary¹

C17: from Latin ēmissārius emissary, spy, from ēmittere to send out; see emit

Example Sentences

A friendship between the two women was forged; Didion, who would publish “Slouching Toward Bethlehem” the following year, had found an emissary into the darker corners of the city’s cultural life.

From Los Angeles Times

He returned to Huizar’s office after college, eventually rising to the position of special assistant, serving as his driver, his confidant and his emissary to lobbyists, consultants and others.

From Los Angeles Times

Here were emissaries of the season, summer’s welcoming committee.

From New York Times

She’s an emissary from another world, a mismatch with the characters of “Misalliance” and all the more appreciated for showing them an alternative they never dreamed existed.

From Los Angeles Times

Not through the phone calls or the emissaries or the public statements or the joint committee meetings.

From New York Times

Related Words

• envoy
• go-between
• intermediary
• messenger