artificial

The word “artificial” means made by humans rather than occurring naturally. In plain terms, not natural — either man-made, or fake in manner or feeling.

“Artificial” is pronounced ah-tih-FIHSH-l (/ˌɑːr.təˈfɪʃ.l̩/ in IPA).

Here is “artificial” used in a sentence: “The drink is full of artificial colours and flavours.”

Words with a similar meaning to “artificial” include artificious and factitious.

The opposite of “artificial” — its antonyms — is antonym(s) of.

“Artificial” is an adjective.

The word “artificial” comes from Latin. From Latin artificialis, from artificium ("a craft" or "skill"), built from ars ("skill") and facere ("to make").

“Artificial” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

'Artificial' means made by humans rather than occurring in nature, so it is the direct opposite of 'natural.' Artificial flowers, for instance, are manufactured, while natural ones grow on plants.

Both suggest something is not the real or natural thing, but 'artificial' is more neutral and often technical, as in 'artificial light' or 'artificial intelligence,' while 'fake' usually implies an intent to deceive. Artificial things are not always meant to fool anyone.

The two overlap, but 'synthetic' specifically means made by chemical synthesis, often to copy a natural material, as with synthetic rubber. 'Artificial' is broader and simply means human-made rather than naturally occurring.

Yes. Beyond meaning man-made, 'artificial' can describe behaviour that is insincere or put on, such as an 'artificial smile' or 'artificial politeness' that does not reflect genuine feeling.