Dictionary.net

the official temporarily in charge of a diplomatic mission in the absence of the ambassador

the official temporarily in charge of a diplomatic mission in the absence of the ambassador

A diplomatic representative, or minister of an inferior grade, accredited by the government of one state to the minister of foreign affairs of another; also, a substitute, ad interim, for an ambassador or minister plenipotentiary.

A diplomatic representative, or minister of an inferior grade, accredited by the government of one state to the minister of foreign affairs of another; also, a substitute, ad interim, for an ambassador or minister plenipotentiary.

[Fr.] A foreign minister of the third grade.