rapprochement

noun

rap·​proche·​ment ˌra-ˌprōsh-ˈmänt  ˌra-ˌprōsh-ˈmäⁿ 

-ˌprȯsh-;

ra-ˈprōsh-ˌmäⁿ

: establishment of or state of having cordial relations

Synonyms

• communion
• fellowship
• rapport

Examples of rapprochement in a Sentence

Officials hope that these talks will lead to a rapprochement with the rebels.

The possibility of rapprochement between the two countries seems unlikely.

Recent Examples on the Web

Fence-mending with China has limits Beijing’s rapprochement with the U.K. and Japan is in its early stages, and major differences remain that limit and could derail it. —Ken Moritsugu, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2025

Before the Arab Spring in 2011, Turkey and Syria were enjoying a rapprochement after a near century of, at best, strained relations. —Alia Malek, New York Times, 17 Jan. 2025

Although orchestrated without Russian input, this rapprochement has benefited Moscow. —Hanna Notte, Foreign Affairs, 15 July 2024

To Washington, the Saudi rapprochement with Iran may seem like bad news. —Maria Fantappie, Foreign Affairs, 22 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from rapprocher to bring together, from Middle French, from re- + approcher to approach, from Old French aprochier, from Late Latin appropiare — more at approach

First Known Use

1809, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

rapprochement

noun

rap·​proche·​ment ˌrap-ˌrōsh-ˈmän 

: establishment of or state of having friendly relations