multilateral
|mul-ti-lat-er-al|
C1
/ˌmʌltiˈlætərəl/
involving multiple parties
Etymology
Etymology Information
'multilateral' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'multilateralis,' where 'multi-' meant 'many' and 'lateralis' meant 'sided.'
Historical Evolution
'multilateralis' transformed into the French word 'multilatéral,' and eventually became the modern English word 'multilateral' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'having many sides,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'involving multiple parties or nations.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
involving multiple sides or parties, especially in a diplomatic or international context.
The multilateral agreement was signed by several countries.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35