plenipotentiary

Definition

A diplomat invested with full power to represent their government and make binding decisions without consulting home. Essentially giving someone the keys to your country's diplomatic car and hoping they don't crash it.

Example Usage

The ambassador served as plenipotentiary during the peace negotiations, having authority to sign treaties on behalf of her nation.

Origin

From Latin 'plenus' (full) + 'potentia' (power), used since medieval diplomatic practice

Fun Fact

Historical plenipotentiaries sometimes took months to receive instructions from their governments, so they genuinely needed full decision-making authority. Modern telecommunications have made the role somewhat obsolete.

Source: Diplomatic protocol and international relations

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