fence-mending

American  

[fens-men-ding] / ˈfɛnsˌmɛn dɪŋ /

noun

1. the practice of reestablishing or strengthening personal, business, or political contacts and relationships by conciliation or negotiation, as after a dispute, disagreement, or period of inactivity.

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or promoting fence-mending.

Etymology

Origin of fence-mending

1940–45;

Example Sentences

But after the harsh words from Ecowas and Senegal he may now have to engage in some serious fence-mending in West Africa.

From BBC • Aug. 11, 2024

Since that summit in Athens, the regional rivals have maintained regular high-level contacts to promote fence-mending initiatives, such as allowing Turkish citizens to visit 10 Greek islands without cumbersome visa procedures.

From Seattle Times • May 13, 2024

Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled a planned fence-mending trip to Beijing in the wake of the incident, a trip that has yet to be rescheduled.

From Washington Times • May 8, 2023

Mr. Sunak has set off on a grand fence-mending tour.

From New York Times • Mar. 19, 2023

The man glanced up, saw the blue uniforms worn by the three horsemen, and went peacefully on with his fence-mending.

From The Guns of Shiloh A Story of the Great Western Campaign by Altsheler, Joseph A. (Joseph Alexander)