artifice

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Clever but dishonest behaviour used to trick or deceive someone.

   He won the contract through charm and pure artifice.

2. 2
   noun

   A clever device or skilful method; a contrivance.

   The film relies on the artifice of flashbacks to tell its story.

Simplified etymology

Artifice is recorded from the late Middle Ages and comes from the same Latin roots as art and artefact. These roots connect it with Latin ars, “skill,” and with the practical idea of something made through art or skill.

From Middle French artifice, from Latin artificium.

Topics

External links

• Google Images
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary