tradecraft

American  

[treyd-kraft] / ˈtreɪdˌkræft /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of tradecraft

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

Example Sentences

Burgess described the hackers' abilities as "highly sophisticated, using top-notch tradecraft to find your networks, test for vulnerabilities, knock on digital doors and check the digital locks".

From BBC

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

From 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.

From Salon

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

From Washington Times