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

“Cary and the team at Aardvark represent that sadly disappearing sector of tradecraft in the current culture,” actor Jon Hamm says via email.

From Los Angeles Times

Our tradecraft has not changed.

From Seattle Times

In a not-too-subtle jab at Trump, Schiff said he also learned the ways of Russian tradecraft, including “how they target people who are of poor moral character, who are philanderers, who are obsessed with money.”

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