Origin: Latin suffix -al
International has 7 different meanings across 2 categories:
any of several international socialist organizations
"The delegates gathered at the conference to discuss strategies for the various international socialist organizations fighting against imperialism."
Someone who has represented their country in a particular sport.
"My grandfather still drives an old International that he bought right after World War II."
A make of truck and other vehicles formerly manufactured by International Harvester.
In plain English: An international is a person from another country who is visiting or living in your own nation.
"The conference was attended by representatives from every international in the region."
Usage: When used as a noun, "International" refers specifically to a brand of trucks and farm equipment once made by International Harvester. This usage is distinct from the adjective meaning something occurring between nations.
concerning or belonging to all or at least two or more nations
"international affairs"
"an international agreement"
"international waters"
from or between other countries
"external commerce"
"international trade"
"developing nations need outside help"
Of or having to do with more than one nation.
"The international summit brought together leaders from dozens of countries to discuss global climate goals."
Between or among nations
"The new trade agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between our nation and its international partners."
In plain English: Something that is international involves more than one country.
"The international airport serves flights from many different countries."
Usage: Use international to describe activities, organizations, or standards that involve multiple countries rather than being limited to a single nation. Avoid using it for events held within a specific country, even if foreign visitors are present, as the scope must cross national borders.
The word international combines the prefix inter-, meaning "between," with national. It entered modern English in 1780 when Jeremy Bentham coined it for his book An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation.