noun
craft
KRAHFT
noun
1
Skill in making something by hand, especially using traditional or artistic techniques.
"The chair was built with real craft, every joint fitted by hand."
"Pottery is a craft that takes years to master."
2
A trade or occupation requiring skilled manual work.
"Carpentry is a craft passed down from father to son in his family."
3
A boat, ship, aircraft, or spacecraft (used for vessels generally).
"Several small craft were moored in the harbour."
"The spacecraft is the most advanced craft ever launched."
4
Cleverness or cunning used to deceive or manipulate.
"He got what he wanted through craft rather than honesty."
verb
1
To make or produce something with skill and care.
"The speech was carefully crafted to appeal to undecided voters."
"She crafts handmade jewelry in her spare time."
How to Use Craft
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSkilled handmade work or a skilled trade; also used for boats/aircraft, and (older sense) for cunning.
Common pairings
arts and crafts
craft a message
skilled craft
small craft
Word Forms
crafted past tense, craft plural, crafts plural, crafts singular
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Etymology
From Old English cræft ("strength, skill"), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning power or strength — the sense narrowed over time from raw power to skilled ability.