Ar*tif"i*cer (#), n. [Cf. F. artificier, fr. LL. artificiarius.]

1.

An artistic worker; a mechanic or manufacturer; one whose occupation requires skill or knowledge of a particular kind, as a silversmith.

2.

One who makes or contrives; a deviser, inventor, or framer.

Milton.

The great Artificer of all that moves. Cowper.

3.

A cunning or artful fellow.

B. Jonson.

4. Mil.

A military mechanic, as a blacksmith, carpenter, etc.; also, one who prepares the shells, fuses, grenades, etc., in a military laboratory.

Syn. -- Artisan; artist. See Artisan.

© Webster 1913.