Pronunciation: ( ˌ )shär- ˌ zh ā -d ə - ' fer
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural chargés d'affaires \ - ˌ zh ā -d ə -, - ˌ zh ā z-d ə - \
Etymology: F, literally, one charged with affairs
Date: 1767
1 : a subordinate diplomat who substitutes for an absent ambassador or minister
2 : a diplomat inferior in rank to an ambassador or minister who heads a mission when no ambassador or minister is assigned