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Synonyms

artistry

American  
[ahr-ti-stree] / ˈɑr tɪ stri /

noun

  1. artistic workmanship, effect, or quality.

  2. artistic ability.


artistry British  
/ ˈɑːtɪstrɪ /

noun

  1. artistic workmanship, ability, or quality

  2. artistic pursuits

  3. great skill

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of artistry

First recorded in 1865–70; artist + -ry

Explanation

Artistry is a particular skill or a flair for something, especially an artistic pursuit. You might love watching ice skating competitions for the sheer artistry of the figure skaters. You can take piano lessons for years and learn how to play many pieces but still not quite achieve the artistry of a truly gifted pianist. It takes practice to gain artistry, but it also takes a kind of creative spark. The word artistry first appeared in the 1830s from artist, modeled after words such as chemistry, from chemist. The root is the Latin word ars, or "art."

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Vocabulary lists containing artistry

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Is there an element of separation at all between the artistry and you as a person?

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 2, 2026

“Sculptural, light-filled, and profoundly livable, this architectural gem stands as a testament to Brouse’s signature vision a residence that celebrates artistry, space, and the boundless beauty of the hills that surround it,” it crowed.

From MarketWatch Jun. 2, 2026

There was little question on paper which of these two teams brought more artistry to Budapest.

From The Wall Street Journal May 30, 2026

According to the researchers, this means the artistry behind piano tone is not merely metaphorical or subjective.

From Science Daily May 28, 2026

There was an artistry to his shots and a lordliness to his moves.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

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