protocol

[proh-tuh-kawl, -kol, -kohl] / ˈproʊ təˌkɔl, -ˌkɒl, -ˌkoʊl /

NOUN

rules of conduct, behavior in certain situation

Synonyms

STRONGEST

agreement code contract covenant custom obligation pact

STRONG

compact concordat conventions courtesy decorum etiquette formalities manners order politesse propriety treaty

WEAK

good form p's and q's

Antonyms

STRONGEST

disagreement

STRONG

bad manners impoliteness rudeness

WEAK

crudeness impropriety

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After a second doctor changed their protocol, they had their first child together through IVF.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

A slight, late-morning pullback happened just before media outlets reported on an Islamic Republic News Agency headline that said Iran and Oman were drafting a protocol to monitor traffic through the strait.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

As a result, batters this spring went through a rigorous measurement protocol unlike anything MLB had ever undertaken.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Referee Anthony Taylor stopped the Premier League match for three minutes early in the second half in line with the competition's on-field anti-discrimination protocol.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

"Istanbul's a busy port. But let's go over the evacuation protocol again, just in case."

From "What the Night Sings" by Vesper Stamper

protocol

Example Sentences

Related Words