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

The diplomats presented to Western politicians as moderates are tasked with using diplomacy to buy time for Khamenei. —Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 6 Feb. 2026

Her methodical approach and deep Latin American expertise position her to handle day-to-day diplomacy as Washington recalibrates its relationship with Caracas. —Yamlek Mojica Loaisiga, Los Angeles Times, 4 Feb. 2026

Russia’s grain diplomacy functions with the understanding that food today means military bases tomorrow. —Hana Kiros, The Atlantic, 3 Feb. 2026

In adulthood, Bill was admired for his decision-making and diplomacy, but Ben was feared for his aggression and intransigence. —Thomas Morgan, The Conversation, 3 Feb. 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