noun

emissary

EM-ih-sair-ee/ˈemɪseri/

A representative sent on a mission.

The emissary presents a sealed diplomatic envelope to the seated official.

A formally dressed emissary presents a sealed diplomatic envelope to a seated official.

Etymology

eLatinout

+missLatinto send

+aryLatinperson associated with

An emissary is literally someone sent out. The Latin noun named a scout or spy; the selected meaning retains the idea of a person dispatched on someone else’s mission.

In context

Chronicle - Medieval History Documentaries185:38

on the 25th of May 1453 the young Sultan sends an emissary to the emperor suggesting that he surrender

3+ Hours Of Medieval Military History

More examples

The president sends an emissary to begin peace talks.
Two emissaries arrive with an offer from the neighboring kingdom.
She acts as the company's emissary in negotiations with local leaders.

Forms

emissary · emissaries

Similar words

envoy: Usually an official representative sent on a diplomatic mission.
delegate: Usually chosen to represent a group at a meeting.