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Definitions

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.

“The protocol is before the game you meet at half-court,” Auriemma explained in the news conference.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 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

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

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

But if it was a routine evacuation per standard protocol, why did Willa hide the details beneath the floor?

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.