diplomacy

noun

di·​plo·​ma·​cy də-ˈplō-mə-sē 

1

: the art and practice of conducting negotiations between nations

2

: skill in handling affairs without arousing hostility : tact

handled the awkward situation with diplomacy

Synonyms of diplomacy

• manners
• tact
• sensitivity
• gallantry
• tactfulness
• consideration

Examples of diplomacy in a Sentence

She has had a long and distinguished career in diplomacy.

The government avoided a war by successfully resolving the issues through diplomacy.

This is a situation that calls for tactful diplomacy.

Recent Examples on the Web

In theory, Iran and the United States could resolve these concerns via diplomacy. — Ali Vaez, Foreign Affairs, 29 Sep. 2026

But as the two systems pull apart, China is growing more confident in its model of development and diplomacy, while Washington’s preferred tools of sanctions and pressure are losing their force. — Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 28 Sep. 2026

Last week's explosions came as South Korea’s liberal government sought to help revive diplomacy between Pyongyang and Washington as part of broader efforts to reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula. — ABC News, 28 Sep. 2026

China has long used its giant panda loan program as a tool of Beijing's soft power diplomacy worldwide. — Rashad Williams, CBS News, 28 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see diplomatic

First Known Use

1766, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing diplomacy

• dollar diplomacy
• gunboat diplomacy
• shuttle diplomacy

Kids Definition

diplomacy

noun

di·​plo·​ma·​cy də-ˈplō-mə-sē 

1

: the work of keeping up relations between the governments of different countries

2

: skill in dealing with others without causing bad feelings : tact