bilateral
adj. · n.-
1 between two groups (adj.) C1 Advanced Formalinvolving two groups or countries, especially in an official agreement.
involving two parties, groups, or nations, typically in a formal or diplomatic context.
ExampleThe two countries signed a bilateral trade agreement to lower taxes on imports.
ExampleThe bilateral negotiations stalled when neither delegation was willing to compromise on the sensitive issue of maritime borders.
UsageCommonly used in political and legal contexts to describe treaties or talks.
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2 having two sides (adj.) C1 Advanced Technical Sciencehaving two sides or parts that are the same.
relating to or having two sides; specifically having symmetry where the left and right sides are mirror images.
ExampleMost animals, including humans, have bilateral symmetry.
ExampleThe biologist noted that the specimen exhibited perfect bilateral symmetry, with identical markings on both the left and right wings.
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3 family descent (adj.) C2 Proficiency Academic Technicaltracing your family history through both your mother's and father's side.
relating to a system of kinship where descent is traced through both the maternal and paternal lines.
ExampleIn many modern societies, people follow a bilateral system of family history.
ExampleThe researcher argued that bilateral descent patterns provided a more flexible social structure than strictly patrilineal systems.
- unilineal
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4 a meeting (n.) C1 Advanced Formala formal meeting between two people or groups.
a formal discussion or meeting held between two parties, especially in diplomacy.
ExampleThe president held a bilateral with the prime minister before the main summit.
ExampleFollowing the general assembly, the two leaders retired to a private room for a bilateral to discuss regional security.
From bi- + lateral.