1. Fig. to walk very carefully; to take steps gingerly.

1. Since he stumbled and fell against the china cabinet, Bill has been walking on eggshells.

2. Fig. to be very diplomatic and inoffensive.

1. I was walking on eggshells trying to explain the remark to her without offend- ing her further.

2. I was always on eggshells when my family came to stay.