legation
UK[lɪˈɡeɪʃ(ə)n]US[lɪˈɡeɪʃ(ə)n]
n
a group of diplomats representing their government in a foreign country, typically ranking below an embassy.
n
the official residence or offices of such a group of diplomats.
Morpheme Breakdown
leg
ation
leg
send
ation
noun suffix
Etymology
the word legation originates from the latin noun 'legatio', which is derived from the verb 'legare', meaning 'to send as a deputy or ambassador'. this verb itself is linked to the latin root 'lex, legis' (law), suggesting a formal, legally sanctioned mission. the core concept of being sent on an official mission evolved through medieval latin and old french before entering english, where it specifically came to denote a diplomatic mission of a rank below an embassy. thus, the literal sense of 'a sending' transformed into the modern abstract meaning of a diplomatic delegation and its headquarters.
Analysis
Structure: leg (send) + ation (noun suffix)
leg (from latin 'legare', meaning 'to send, depute, bequeath'); ation (a latin-derived noun-forming suffix indicating an action, process, or result).
Examples
the papal legation was received with full ceremonial honors.
he was appointed to serve at the british legation in bern.
the small legation became a hive of activity during the crisis.