protocol Definition

protocol
noun

1. Correct formal or diplomatic etiquette or procedure.

Thesaurus: etiquette, manners, decorum, customs, propriety, politesse, conventions, courtesies, formalities, good form, procedure, p's and q's.
2. A first draft of a diplomatic document, eg one setting out the terms of a treaty.
(N Amer, especially US)
3. A plan of a scientific experiment or other procedure.

Etymology: 16c: from Latin protocollum, from Greek protokollon a note of the contents of a document, glued to the front sheet, from kolla glue.