entente etymology

Etymology and Meaning

  • Entente (French)
  • Meaning: An agreement or understanding between two or more parties, especially in the realm of diplomacy or international relations.

Origin

The word "entente" derives from the French verb "entendre", meaning "to understand" or "to agree".

  • Late Latin: "intendantum", from the Latin verb "intendere" (to stretch out, to apply one's mind)
  • Old French: "entente", meaning "understanding, agreement"
  • Middle French: "entente", referring to a diplomatic agreement

Historical Significance

The term "entente" has been used particularly in the context of international relations to describe agreements between nations. Notable examples include:

  • Triple Entente (1907): An alliance between Britain, France, and Russia, designed to counterbalance the power of the German Empire.
  • Entente Cordiale (1904): An agreement between Britain and France to resolve colonial disputes and maintain diplomatic cooperation.
  • Little Entente (1920): A defensive alliance between Czechoslovakia, Romania, and Yugoslavia to protect against Hungarian expansionism.

Current Usage

In contemporary diplomacy, "entente" continues to be used to refer to agreements and understandings between countries. It implies a high level of cooperation and mutual understanding.

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