Multilateral
ˌmʌltɪˈlætərəl
Definitions
Involving or participated in by more than two sides or parties, especially countries.
ˌmʌltɪˈlætərəl
Involving many countries or parties
The UN is a multilateral organization.
💡 Simply: Imagine a team project where more than two groups are working together. That's multilateral! It's about many countries or groups working together.
👶 For kids: When lots of different groups or countries work together, it's called multilateral.
More Examples
The conference focused on finding multilateral solutions to the global crisis.
The agreement was the result of a multilateral negotiation.
How It's Used
"The countries signed a multilateral treaty to reduce carbon emissions."
"The company is involved in a multilateral trade agreement."
"A multilateral legal framework governed the use of the resources."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *multus* (many) and *latus* (side), reflecting involvement of multiple parties or sides. It entered English in the early 20th century in the context of international relations.
Historically used in discussions of international law and diplomacy, the term gained prominence during and after the First World War.
Memory tip
Think of a multi-sided polygon; the word is about multiple sides involved.
Word Origin
"multi- (many) + latus (side)"