I. noun
or fe·cial ˈfēshəl
( plural fetials -lz ; or fe·ti·a·les ˌfād.ēˈäˌlās ; or fecials )
Etymology: Latin fetialis, probably from (assumed) Old Latin fetis statute, treaty (akin to Gothic ga deths deed) + Latin -alis -al — more at deed
: a member of a priestly board in ancient Rome responsible for overseeing diplomatic negotiations
II. adjective
or fecial “
Etymology: Latin fetialis of a fetial, from fetialis, n.
: dealing with matters (as a treaty or declaration and rules of war) affecting relations between nations
the fetial law of Rome
: diplomatic
a member of the fetial profession