Crafts
/kræfts/noun
Plural of craft: skills or trades requiring special training, or handmade objects.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from a Germanic root meaning “strength” or “ability,” so the modern idea of a craft is literally a form of empowered skill, not just a hobby.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*kraftaz
“strength, power, ability”
Old English
OE
cræft
“strength, skill, art, cunning”
Middle English
ME
craft
“skill, trade, occupation”
Modern English
English
craft
“skill in making things by hand; a trade or occupation”
Modern English
English
crafts
“plural of craft”
Explore more surprising origins