diplomacy

The word “diplomacy” means the practice of managing relations between countries through negotiation rather than conflict. In plain terms, handling relationships — between nations or between people — carefully and tactfully, to avoid conflict.

“Diplomacy” is pronounced dih-PLOH-muh-see (/dɪˈploʊməsi/ in IPA).

Here is “diplomacy” used in a sentence: “Years of diplomacy finally led to a peace agreement.”

“Diplomacy” is a noun.

The word “diplomacy” comes from Latin. From French diplomatie, ultimately from Latin diploma, originally meaning an official letter or license.

“Diplomacy” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Diplomacy” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the practice of managing relations between countries through negotiation rather than conflict.

"Diplomacy" specifically refers to managing relations between countries through negotiation rather than conflict, while "politics" is the broader activity of governing and exercising power, which can occur within or between nations. Diplomacy is essentially one tool used within international politics.

Outside of international relations, "diplomacy" means handling people or difficult situations with skill and tact, such as delivering criticism gently or resolving a disagreement without causing offense. This everyday sense focuses on interpersonal tact rather than formal negotiations between governments.

Its core meaning centers on managing relations through negotiation rather than confrontation, so it generally implies working toward resolution without open conflict. However, diplomacy can still involve firm, difficult negotiations; it simply favors dialogue and tact over hostility.