noun

envoy

/ˈɛnvɔɪ/ · say it: EN·voy

a messenger or representative on a diplomatic mission

In more detail

1. (noun) a messenger or representative sent by a government or leader to conduct official business with another government or person

Examples

1. The president sent an envoy to negotiate peace between the two countries.

How to use envoy

An envoy is typically sent on a specific diplomatic mission or to represent a government in negotiations with another party. It is more specialized than 'representative' and often implies a temporary or mission-specific role, whereas an ambassador is a permanent diplomatic position. The term is used in formal diplomatic and political contexts.

Common phrases

special envoy
presidential envoy
send an envoy
envoy to
diplomatic envoy

Synonyms

ambassador · emissary · representative · delegate · messenger

Word family

envoy (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 'envoy' with 'envious,' which sounds similar but has an entirely different meaning; envoys are messengers, not feelings of jealousy.

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