n. 1. One, such as a painter, sculptor, or writer, who is able by virtue of imagination and talent or skill to create works of aesthetic value, especially in the fine arts. 2. A person whose work shows exceptional creative ability or skill: You are an artist in the kitchen. 3. One, such as an actor or singer, who works in the performing arts. 4. One who is adept at an activity, especially one involving trickery or deceit: a con artist. [French artiste, from Old French, lettered person, from Medieval Latin artista, from Latin ars, art-, art; see ar- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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