Search Result for "embassies": 

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Embassy \Em"bas*sy\, n.; pl. Embassies. [OF. ambass['e]e, embasc['e]e, LL. ambasciata, fr. ambasciare for ambactiare to go on a mission, fr. L. ambactus vassal, dependent, of Celtic or German origin; cf. W. amaeth husbandman, Goth. andbahts servant, G. amt office, OHG. ambaht. Cf. Ambassador.] 1. The public function of an ambassador; the charge or business intrusted to an ambassador or to envoys; a public message to; foreign court concerning state affairs; hence, any solemn message. [1913 Webster] He sends the angels on embassies with his decrees. --Jer. Taylor. [1913 Webster] 2. The person or persons sent as ambassadors or envoys; the ambassador and his suite; envoys. [1913 Webster] 3. The residence or office of an ambassador. [1913 Webster] Note: Sometimes, but rarely, spelled ambassy. [1913 Webster]