legation

noun

le·​ga·​tion li-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce legation (audio)
Synonyms of legationnext
1
: the sending forth of a legate
2
: a body of deputies sent on a mission
specifically : a diplomatic mission in a foreign country headed by a minister
3
: the official residence and office of a diplomatic minister in a foreign country

Examples of legation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The Japanese government promptly purchased more than 100 copies of Yardley’s book, sending it to embassies and legations to encourage them to strengthen their codes. — Peter Zablocki, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Feb. 2025 Perle not only greeted them but invited them to dinner that night with the legation's employees. — CBS News, 17 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of legation was in the 15th century

Rhymes for legation

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Cite this Entry

“Legation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legation. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

legation

noun
le·​ga·​tion li-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce legation (audio)
1
: a group of representatives sent to a foreign country
especially : one headed by a minister
2
: the official residence and office of such a group
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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