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 the critical study of historical documents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; see origin at diplomatic, -ics

Example Sentences

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 Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 7, Slice 10 "David, St" to "Demidov" by Various

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

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 12, Slice 5 "Greek Law" to "Ground-Squirrel" by Various

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 Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D) by Various

The flowers and insects will give me that relaxation, with God's will, after my long researches in philology and diplomatics.

From The Crime of Sylvestre Bonnard by France, Anatole

We may mention, in passing, that the papyrus roll gave us a word still in use in diplomatics, the word protocol.

From Illuminated Manuscripts by Bradley, John William

Related Words

• diplomacy