rapprochement

[rap-rohsh-mahn, ra-prawsh-mahn]

noun

1. an establishment or reestablishment of harmonious relations.

   a rapprochement reached between warring factions.

   Synonyms: accommodation, understanding, reconciliation

rapprochement

/ raprɔʃmɑ̃ /

noun

1. a resumption of friendly relations, esp between two countries

rapprochement

1. A closer approach of two groups to each other. Rapprochement, a French term, is often applied to two nations, especially ones that become reconciled after relations between them have worsened.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rapprochement¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; from French, equivalent to rapproche(r) “to bring near, bring together,” from r(e)- + approcher + -ment; re-, approach, -ment

Word History and Origins

Origin of rapprochement¹

C19: literally: bringing closer

Example Sentences

EMBR3 4.87%increase; green up pointing triangle is being hit hard by tariffs, but the company hopes that a rapprochement between the two countries could lead to an exception for its products.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

When I mention a rapprochement, my husband has an almost animal reaction, a near physical panic.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But the deterioration of ties with the U.S. before those words of rapprochement had stunned India.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He wants to revive his ambition to broker a grand bargain in the Middle East, at the centre of which would be a rapprochement between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Read more on BBC

"There is no prospect of a rapprochement with China - the rivalry will endure."

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• conciliation 
• détente 
• friendship 
• harmonization 
• harmony 
• reconciliation