I. ˈeməˌserē, -ri noun
( -es )
Etymology: Latin emissarius, from emissus + -arius -ary
1.
a. : an agent or representative usually empowered to act more or less independently (as in collecting or conveying information or in negotiating)
sent a special emissary to discuss possible peace terms
acted as the president's personal emissary to the union leaders
b. : a spy or other undercover agent
was reported to be nothing but a Communist emissary
c. : messenger
sent an emissary backstage to order quiet
2.
a. archaic : an outlet especially of a lake or river
b. obsolete : an emissary duct or vessel
II. adjective
1. obsolete : relating to or acting as an emissary
2. : leading outward — used especially of certain veins that pass through apertures in the skull and connect the venous sinuses of the dura mater with veins external to the skull