vis-à-vis /viːz.ɑːˈviː/noun 5adjective 2adverb 2preposition 2 noun5 •One of two (or more) people facing or opposite each other.But the wrath that I awaited did not descend. Instead, my young vis-à-vis merely looked melancholy. — 1933 •A person holding a corresponding position in another organisation.I talked with my vis-à-vis in the French embassy. •A sofa with seats for two people, so arranged that the occupants are face to face while sitting on opposite sides. •(historical) A small horse-drawn carriage for two people sitting facing each other.there is not a greater difference between a single-horse chair and madam Pompadour’s vis a vis, than betwixt a single amour, and an amour thus nobly doubled — 1761 •A date or escort in a social event.That was what Miss McKenna said, and the Sergeant who was my vis-à-vis looked the same thing. — 1888 adjective2 •Face-to-face. •Having two portraits facing each other. adverb2 •Face to face (with another).[…]turning the seat in front so we could sit vis-a-vis — 1883 •(no longer used) In a position facing a specified or implied subject. preposition2 •Opposite; across from; set so as to be facing.He was seated vis-à-vis the president. •In relation to; compared with.Canada's role vis-à-vis the United States' in Afghanistan
