craftsman

noun

crafts·​man ˈkraf(t)s-mən 

plural craftsmen

1

: a person and especially a man who practices a trade or handicraft as a job

The router offers a wide range of speeds and is designed for the cabinetmaker, solid surface fabricator and other craftsmen.

—Wood & Wood Products

2

: a person and especially a man who is skilled in a craft (see craft entry 1 sense 2a)

… a genuine craftsman with an ear for dialogue and, more importantly, an understanding of the human heart.

—Wes Lukowsky

craftsmanlike

ˈkraf(t)s-mən-ˌlīk 

adjective

craftsmanly

ˈkraf(t)s-mən-lē 

adjective

craftsmanship

ˈkraf(t)s-mən-ˌship 

noun

compare craftsperson, craftswoman

Synonyms

• artisan
• artist
• maker
• craftsperson

Examples of craftsman in a Sentence

Skilled craftsmen carved the enormous mantel.

He is a master craftsman who works with marble.

As a writer he has developed into a true craftsman.

Recent Examples on the Web

The workshop is like a metalsmith’s laboratory, where craftsmen skilled in traditional goldsmithing techniques constantly experiment with new materials and methods. —Jill Newman, Robb Report, 20 Oct. 2025

Building a piano takes Steinway’s skilled craftsmen 11 months from start to finish. —Joel Williams, CNN Money, 18 Oct. 2025

Desks made by craftsmen or high-end furniture designers, including many executive desks, cost $1,000-$2,500. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 Oct. 2025

That could be with an incredible craftsman who makes a perfect mattress for a great night’s sleep, for example. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for craftsman

• draftsman
• draftsmen
• draughtsman
• draughtsmen

Kids Definition

craftsman

noun

crafts·​man ˈkraf(t)-smən 

1

: one who practices a trade or handicraft : artisan

2

: a highly skilled worker

craftsmanship

-ˌship 

noun