Langimage
English

artificial

|ar-ti-fi-cial|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌɑːr.tɪˈfɪʃ.əl/

🇬🇧

/ˌɑː.tɪˈfɪʃ.əl/

man-made

Etymology
Etymology Information

'artificial' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'artificialis,' where 'artificium' meant 'a work of art.'

Historical Evolution

'artificialis' transformed into the Old French word 'artificiel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'artificial' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'pertaining to art or skill,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'made by humans.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally, especially as a copy of something natural.

The artificial flowers looked almost real.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

not genuine or natural; insincere or affected.

Her smile seemed artificial.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35