A writer may produce an artful piece of prose, one that's clearly and elegantly written. The same writer might also make an artful argument, one that cleverly leaves out certain details and …

ARTFUL definition: slyly crafty or cunning; deceitful; tricky. See examples of artful used in a sentence.

ARTFUL meaning: 1. clever and skilful, especially in getting what you want: 2. clever and skillful, especially in…. Learn more.

artful (ˈɑːtfʊl) adj 1. cunning or tricky 2. skilful in achieving a desired end

Definition of artful adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Oct 8, 2025 · artful (comparative more artful, superlative most artful) Characterized by, or performed with, cleverness or contrivance; clever, ingenious. quotations

If you use artful to describe the way someone has done or arranged something, you approve of it because it is clever or elegant.