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Protocol

PROH-tuh-kol /ˈproʊtəkɒl/

nounC1GRETOEFL

FormalTechnical

The official procedure or system of rules governing affairs of state or diplomatic occasions; (computing) a set of rules governing the exchange or transmission of data between devices.

In computing, it's a precise set of rules ensuring devices can understand each other. In general use, it refers to formal etiquette or procedures.

The story behind the word. The word 'protocol' comes from the Late Latin 'protocollum', which itself came from the Greek 'protokollon'. This Greek term referred to the 'first sheet glued onto a papyrus roll', which contained an abstract of the contents. It was the 'first glue' (`proto` meaning 'first' and `kolla` meaning 'glue'). Over time, it evolved to mean the original record, then a draft of a treaty, and eventually, the formal rules governing procedures.

Word relationships

Procedure: A series of actions conducted in a certain order or manner.
Convention: A way in which something is usually done, especially within a particular area or activity.
Standard: A level of quality or attainment; a rule or principle that is used as a basis for judgment.

Anarchy: Absence of government and absolute freedom of the individual, regarded as a political ideal.
Chaos: Complete disorder and confusion.

Commonly confused with

Policy: A 'policy' is a principle guiding decisions; a 'protocol' is a specific procedure for carrying out actions.

Word family

protocoled (adj): Documented according to protocol.

Collocations

internet protocol
communication protocol
security protocol
follow protocol
diplomatic protocol

Example sentences

"The internet relies on a complex set of `protocols`, such as HTTP and TCP/IP, to function." In computer networking.
"Diplomatic `protocol` dictates that ambassadors present their credentials to the head of state." In diplomacy.
"Researchers must follow a strict `protocol` to ensure the validity and reproducibility of their experiments." In scientific research.

Memory hook

Think of the `proto` (first) `col`lection of rules. A `protocol` is the `first` set of rules for how things should be done. First rules

When not to use

Do not use 'protocol' for informal rules or guidelines; it implies a formal, established set of procedures.

Fun facts

The 'Hypertext Transfer Protocol' (HTTP) is the foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web.
In diplomacy, strict protocols are followed to prevent misunderstandings between nations.