diplomatics

American  

[dip-luh-mat-iks] / ˌdɪp ləˈmæt ɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the science of deciphering old official documents, as charters, and of determining their authenticity, age, or the like.

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diplomatics British  

/ ˌdɪpləˈmætɪks /

noun

1. the critical study of historical documents

2. a less common word for diplomacy

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Etymology

Origin of diplomatics

First recorded in 1785–95; diplomatic, -ics

Example Sentences

It’s not the first time that European diplomatics in India have made themselves useful on the Kashmir front.

From The Guardian

Delisle was undoubtedly the most learned man in Europe with regard to the middle ages; and his knowledge of diplomatics, palaeography and printing was profound.

From Project Gutenberg

Jacob Grimm lectured on legal antiquities, historical grammar, literary history, and diplomatics, explained Old German poems, and commented on the Germania of Tacitus.

From Project Gutenberg

Diplō′matist, Dip′lōmat, one skilled in diplomacy; Diplomatol′ogy, the study or science of diplomatics, charters, decrees, &c.—Diplomatic corps, or Corps diplomatique, the whole body of foreign diplomatists resident at any court.

From Project Gutenberg

As above stated, the form of the deed is unusual and follows no precedent; many words are more suggestive of the classics than the customary usage of diplomatics in the 14th century.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• diplomacy