arts

British  

/ ɑːts /

plural noun

1. 1. imaginative, creative, and nonscientific branches of knowledge considered collectively, esp as studied academically

   2. ( as modifier )

      an arts degree

2. See fine art

3. cunning or crafty actions or plots; schemes

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Explanation

The arts are subjects that you study in school which have some artistic or social aspect, rather than being purely practical or job-related. If you major in English and minor in music, you're studying the arts. University subjects and separate colleges — and often even the degrees they award — are sometimes divided into arts and sciences. The arts include things like dance and photography, but also subjects such as Latin or religion. Sciences include, obviously, science, but also more professional and occupational studies. The root of arts is the Latin ars, "art."

Example Sentences

Reorganization is seen for legal services, accountants, financial analysts and technical writers, while those in software engineering, graphic design and creative arts could grow with AI.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

One in Wellington, the equestrian community west of Palm Beach, is expected to include a 440,000-square-foot campus with a performing arts program and aquatic center.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Benjamin said he loved teaching performing arts at Foxfield School as it "brings so much happiness" to the pupils.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

One flier, referenced in the indictment, reads: “SantaCon is a 501c3 Charity organization that, over the last 10 years, has raised over a million dollars for local NYC Charities, specifically arts funding and fighting hunger.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Is Integrative: Provides excellent opportunities for integration as a natural entry or pivot point to other subject areas such as social studies, history, literature, language, and all of the arts.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin