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.
"
Artificer of fraud."
Milton.
The great Artificer of all that moves.
Cowper.
3.
A cunning or artful fellow.
[Obs.]
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.