Diphthong

dif or diphthong, n. (Orthoepy.) A union of 2 vowel sounds pronounced in one syllable, as, ou in out, — called a proper diphthong; union of two vowels in the same syllable, only one of them being sounded, as, ai in ram, — called an improper diphthong. consisting of, — Diphthongal, etc. -thon''gal, a. Pert, to, or Diploma, dt-plo'ma, n.; pi. -mas, -maz. Orig. a state letter of recommendation, —consisting of 2 leaves; a writing conferring some authority, privilege, honor, etc.; esp. a record of a literary degree. — Diplo"macy, -si, -matism, -tizm, n. Art of conducting negotiations between nations, esp. in securing treaties; dexterity in securing advantages. — Diplomat, -mate, -mat, -mafic, Diplo'matist, n. One employed or skilled in, etc. —Diplomatic, -ical, a. — Diplomatically, adv. — Diplomatics, n. Science of diplomas, or art of reading ancient writings, public documents, etc.; paleography. Dipper. See under Dip.