Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • An Austrian statesman and diplomat: Prince Klemens Wenzel Nepomuk Lothar von Metternich was a central European political figure of the 19th century. He is primarily known for his role as the Austrian Empire's Foreign Minister and later Chancellor, and for his dominant influence in European affairs following the Napoleonic Wars.

Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The Congress of Vienna was largely shaped by the conservative policies of Prince Klemens Wenzel Nepomuk Lothar von Metternich.
  • Historians often refer to the period between 1815 and 1848 as the Age of Metternich.

Advanced Usage

• "Metternich system": Refers to the system of international diplomacy and internal repression designed to maintain the balance of power and suppress revolutionary movements, as championed by Metternich.
  • The Metternich system aimed to preserve the old monarchical order in Europe.

Variants and Related Words

• Metternich (n): The common shortened form of his name, used to refer to the man or his policies.
  • Metternich was a master of diplomatic intrigue.
• Metternichean (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of Metternich or his policies.
  • The government's approach was decidedly Metternichean in its suppression of dissent.

Synonyms

• Statesman: A skilled, experienced, and respected political leader or figure.
• Diplomat: A person who represents a country abroad or manages international relations.

Related Phrases

• Concert of Europe: The balance of power system established by the Congress of Vienna, with which Metternich is closely associated.
  • Metternich was a key architect of the Concert of Europe.

Noun

1. Austrian statesman (1773-1859)