bilateralism

noun

bi·​lat·​er·​al·​ism (ˌ)bī-ˈla-t(ə-)rə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce bilateralism (audio)
plural -s
1
: the state of being bilateral
especially : bilateral symmetry
2
: the practice of advancing trade between two countries by concluding agreements governing such factors as the volume and composition of trade, the price of commodities, and the settling of accounts
contrasted with multilateralism

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bilateralism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bilateralism. Accessed 25 Dec. 2025.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!