tradecraft

[treyd-kraft]

noun

1. the various technologies and practices used in espionage and in the analysis of the resulting intelligence.

   Previous generations had to rely on the Cold War tradecraft of dead drops or brush passes for covert information exchanges.

2. the methods, techniques, etc., involved in the practice of any profession or skilled trade.

   The conference brings together experts in various trades to develop curricula based on their tradecraft and skills.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tradecraft¹

First recorded in 1810–20; trade ( def. ) + craft ( def. )

Example Sentences

“There could be bits of tradecraft, or alluding to assets, or people at the agency, which are clear no’s,” McCloskey said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"They've surpassed the KGB in terms of tradecraft and motivation and resistance to penetration," he says.

Read more on BBC

The GOP report criticized the intelligence community's "tradecraft" and scrutinized the highly classified information from 2016 that informed the assessment Putin and Russia attempted to aid Trump's campaign.

Read more on Salon

He said his team focused on tradecraft, platforms and tools, talent and skills, mission priorities and partnerships.

Read more on Washington Times

“As the election cycle progresses, we expect these actors’ tradecraft will improve while the underlying technology becomes more capable.”

Read more on Washington Times