Answer: The term "arrangement" has several meanings, depending on the context in which it is used.
In general, it refers to the act of organizing or planning something in a particular way or the result of that planning. Here are a few examples:
Musical composition: In music, an arrangement refers to the adaptation of a musical piece for a different instrument, group of instruments, or performance context. For instance, a composer might arrange a classical piece for a jazz band.
Plan or agreement: An arrangement can refer to a formal or informal agreement between two or more parties regarding how something should be done or how resources should be allocated. For example, a couple might make an arrangement to split household chores evenly.
Decoration or display: In the context of interior design or event planning, an arrangement can refer to the placement of objects or decoration in a particular way to create an aesthetic effect. For instance, a florist might create a floral arrangement for a wedding.
Organization or grouping: An arrangement can also refer to the grouping or organization of items in a particular order. For example, a librarian might arrange books on a shelf according to author or subject.
Explanation: In the given context, the word "arrangement" refers to a formal agreement or understanding between two parties regarding the sharing of information. Specifically, it refers to an agreement between the US intelligence agency and the British intelligence agency to share decrypted and translated messages obtained through the MAGIC program, which was used to intercept and decrypt Japanese diplomatic messages during World War II.
The phrase "arrangement made the previous winter and approved by the president" indicates that the agreement was made with the knowledge and consent of the US president. However, when the US State Department discovered the arrangement, it caused considerable embarrassment to the Anglo-American relations. This suggests that the State Department was not aware of the agreement and was taken by surprise by its existence.