letter of credence

noun phrase

: a formal document attesting to the power of a diplomatic agent to act for the issuing government

called also letters of credence

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of letter of credence was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near letter of credence

Cite this Entry

“Letter of credence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/letter%20of%20credence. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on letter of credence

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!