EMBASSY

embassy

(noun) a diplomatic building where ambassadors live or work

embassy

(noun) an ambassador and his entourage collectively

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

embassy (plural embassies)

The function or duty of an ambassador.

An organization or group of officials who permanently represent a sovereign state in a second sovereign state or with respect to an international organization such as the United Nations.

A temporary mission representing a sovereign state.

The official residence of such a group, or of an ambassador.

Usage notes

Today the term embassy generally refers to a permanent organization, housed in a permanent building or offices, maintaining ties between nations. In the past, this was more often a temporary mission (as in Japanese Embassy to the United States (1860)) – the delegation would return home following meetings with foreign officials – and this is reflected in some traditional usages and related diplomatic terms, such as Head of Mission.

Source: Wiktionary

Em"bas*sy, n.; pl. Embassies. Etym: [OF. ambassée, embascée, 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. He sends the angels on embassies with his decrees. Jer. Taylor.

2. The person or persons sent as ambassadors or envoys; the ambassador and his suite; envoys.

3. The residence or office of an ambassador.

Note: Sometimes, but rarely, spelled ambassy.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition