| the department of the U.S. federal government that sets forth and maintains the foreign policy of the U.S., esp. in negotiations with foreign governments and international organizations. Abbreviation: DOS |
A department of the federal executive branch primarily responsible for making and conducting foreign policy. It is commonly called the State Department and is headed by the secretary of state. Its activities include negotiating treaties, coordinating correspondence and information programs with foreign governments, and administering economic aid to developing nations.