Definition

The diplomatic equivalent of agreeing to stop glaring at each other across the room, typically between countries that were previously one step away from conflict. It's a deliberate relaxation of tension and improvement in relations, though everyone keeps their weapons just in case. Made famous during the Cold War when the US and USSR decided mutual destruction wasn't that appealing.

Example Usage

The détente between the two rival departments lasted until someone touched someone else's lunch in the communal fridge.

Source: Political science and international relations terminology

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See “detente” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

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