protocol
UK: ˈprəʊtəkɒl | US: ˈproʊtəkɑːl
n. a formal system of rules for correct behavior or procedure
n. a set of technical guidelines for data communication in computing
n. the original draft of a diplomatic document
The word "protocol" originates from Greek prōtokollon, combining prōto- (first) and kolla (glue). In ancient Greece, a prōtokollon referred to the first sheet of a papyrus roll (glued to the scroll cylinder). Later, it evolved to mean the introductory formula of official documents, then generalized to formal rules or procedures. The computing sense emerged in the 20th century, metaphorically extending the idea of "rules" to data exchange standards.
Diplomatic protocol requires ambassadors to present credentials to the host country.
The HTTP protocol governs data transmission on the web.
Researchers followed strict laboratory protocols during the experiment.
The treaty was drafted according to international protocol.
Violating network security protocols may lead to data breaches.