entente

American  

[ahn-tahnt, ahn-tahnt] / ɑnˈtɑnt, ɑ̃ˈtɑ̃t /

noun

plural

ententes

1. an arrangement or understanding between two or more nations agreeing to follow a particular policy with regard to affairs of international concern.

   Synonyms:

   rapprochement, accord, agreement

2. an alliance of parties to such an understanding.

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entente British  

/ ɑ̃tɑ̃t /

noun

1. short for entente cordiale

2. the parties to an entente cordiale collectively

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Etymology

Origin of entente

1830–45; < French: understanding, Old French: intention, noun use of feminine of entent, past participle of entendre to intend

Explanation

When two countries agree to help each other out in the event of a war or other crisis, that's an entente. The political term entente derives from the French éntente, or "understanding." Nations reach an entente when they come to an informal understanding that they'll join forces if necessary. This usually happens when the threat of war is looming. Even though ententes aren't formal treaties, they're usually enough to prevent a more powerful state from starting a war against the cooperating countries.

Example Sentences

Her successor, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, visited France in March to kick off what he called an "entente renewed".

From Reuters • Sep. 19, 2023

The effort seeks to build on multilateral efforts such as the Abraham Accords, the regional entente between the state of Israel and several of its regional Muslim neighbors.

From Washington Times • May 24, 2022

At the core of recent conflicts at both ends of Eurasia is an entente between China and Russia that the world hasn't seen since the Sino-Soviet alliance at the start of the Cold War.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2022

When Mr. Xi came to power a decade ago, the entente between the countries accelerated into a deepening relationship that has overcome decades of division and suspicion.

From New York Times • Feb. 27, 2022

When that fail he make straight for his last resource—his last earth-work I might say did I wish double entente.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker