Main Entry: art·ful

Pronunciation: \ˈärt-fəl\

Function: adjective

Date: 1609

1 : performed with or showing art or skill <an artful performance on the violin>
2 a : using or characterized by art and skill : dexterous <an artful prose stylist> b : adroit in attaining an end usually by insinuating or indirect means : wily <an artful cross-examiner>
3 : artificial <trim walks and artful bowers — William Wordsworth>

synonyms see sly

— art·ful·ly \-fə-lē\ adverb

— art·ful·ness noun