protocol

A set of rules explaining how an activity should be carried out.

• Please follow the safety protocol.
• The hospital changed its protocol for treating burns.
• Staff must learn the new emergency protocols.

How to use it: protocol for doing something (We follow a protocol for handling complaints.)

Similar words: procedure, guidelines

Common phrases: follow a protocol, safety protocol, protocol for something

Rules that computers use to send and receive information.

• Both computers use the same protocol.
• This protocol protects data during transfer.
• The server supports several communication protocols.

Common phrases: network protocol, communication protocol, internet protocol, use a protocol

Official rules about how leaders and their representatives should behave at meetings and ceremonies.

• The ambassador followed diplomatic protocol.
• Protocol requires guests to greet the host first.
• His speech broke protocol during the state visit.

Similar words: etiquette

Common phrases: diplomatic protocol, royal protocol, observe protocol, breach of protocol