treaty
TREE-tee
/ˈtriːti/
A formal, legally binding written agreement between nations.
The most formal and legally weighty term for an international agreement.
The story behind the word. From Old French 'traité', which comes from the Latin 'tractatus' (a handling or treatment). It refers to the formal 'handling' or negotiation of a dispute.
Word relationships
- pact: Pact is slightly less formal and can apply to non-national entities.
- covenant: Covenant often has a more solemn or religious connotation.
- declaration of war: A declaration of war is the formal opposite of a peace treaty.
Commonly confused with
- accord: A treaty is a fully ratified legal document, while an accord may be a preliminary or less formal agreement.
Word family
- treaties (noun): Plural form of treaty.
Collocations
- peace treaty
- sign a treaty
- ratify a treaty
- violate a treaty
Example sentences
- "The Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919, formally ended the state of war between Germany and the Allied Powers." History
- "The international treaty aims to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases worldwide." Environment
Memory hook
A treaty is a 'treated' and signed document that ends a conflict. Signed and sealed.
When not to use
Do not use for informal agreements or agreements between individuals.
Fun facts
- The word 'treatise' (a formal writing on a subject) comes from the same root 'trahere'.
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