foreign relations
Americannoun
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(used with a plural verb) the dealings and relationships between nations.
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(used with a singular verb) the field of foreign affairs.
an expert in foreign relations.
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(used with a singular verb) the quality or character of foreign affairs as a consequence of foreign policy.
a deterioration in their foreign relations.
Etymology
Origin of foreign relations
An Americanism dating back to 1800–10
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The image illustrated what many experts say is Field Marshal Asim Munir's growing role at the centre of Pakistan's foreign relations.
From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026
The House of Representatives and the Senate each have an armed services committee and a foreign relations or foreign affairs committee.
From Salon • Dec. 6, 2025
Is L.A.’s mayor supposed to act as if the megalopolis is a Mayberry, with no foreign relations to foster?
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 9, 2025
Its capital Nuuk is self-governed, but relies on Copenhagen for management of currency, foreign relations and defence - as well as substantial subsidies.
From BBC • Jan. 9, 2025
Their attention is directed exclusively to their foreign relations, and whatever is said or done about reform is intended solely to conciliate public opinion in Europe.
From The Contemporary Review, Volume 36, October 1879 by Various
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
