diplomacy

American  

[dih-ploh-muh-see] / dɪˈploʊ mə si /

noun

1. the conduct by government officials of negotiations and other relations between nations.

2. the art or science of conducting such negotiations.

3. skill in managing negotiations, handling people, etc., so that there is little or no ill will; tact.

   Seating one's dinner guests often calls for considerable diplomacy.

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diplomacy British  

/ dɪˈpləʊməsɪ /

noun

1. the conduct of the relations of one state with another by peaceful means

2. skill in the management of international relations

3. tact, skill, or cunning in dealing with people

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Other Word Forms

• nondiplomacy noun
• prediplomacy noun
• superdiplomacy noun

Etymology

Origin of diplomacy

First recorded in 1790–1800; from French diplomatie, from diplomat(e) diplomat + -ie -y ³

Example Sentences

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a key mediator in the conflict, said on X that “violations” of the cease-fire had been reported and urged “restraint and respect” so that diplomacy can continue.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

"We hope the final agreement will be reached through diplomacy at an early date."

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

"Dialogue, diplomacy and such confidence-building measures are the only way forward."

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

Mr. Bush employed threats, sanctions and diplomacy but ultimately ruled out the use of force.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

He distanced himself from the women and any publicity, believing that diplomacy was the best tactic.

From "Women in Space" by Karen Bush Gibson

Related Words

• negotiation