From Latin 'ars' (skill), PIE *h₂er- (to fit together) — originally any skilled craft, not just fine art, kin to 'arthritis' and 'article.'
Definition
The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
The Full Story
Latin13th centurywell-attested
From OldFrench 'art,' from Latin 'ars' (genitive 'artis,' skill, craft, technique, art), from PIE *h₂er- (to fit together, to join, to arrange). The original meaning was 'skill' or 'craft' — the ability to fit things together well, whether physical objects, language, or ideas. The PIE root also produced Latin 'artus' (joint, limb — literally a fitting), 'arma' (arms, weapons
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'Art,' 'arm,' 'arthritis,' and 'article' may all come from PIE *h₂er- (to join/fit). Art is 'fitting thingstogether' skillfully. An arm is 'thejointed limb.' Arthritis is 'inflammation of the joints.' An article is 'a small joint/section.' Even 'artificial'