# Faber

/ˈfeɪbɝ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/faber
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

describing someone who is skilled at making things or working with their hands. It is a formal word often used to talk about humans as creators.

For teachers: relating to a person as a maker or creator, specifically one who uses tools or manual skill. Often used in philosophical or anthropological contexts to describe the constructive nature of humanity.

## Examples

- The artist showed a truly faber spirit in her workshop.
- Anthropologists often discuss the 'homo faber' concept to explain how tool-making defined early human development.
- The philosopher argued that the essence of the modern worker is no longer purely faber, as digital automation has distanced the individual from the tactile reality of physical production.

## Usage notes

- Primarily used in academic or philosophical writing; frequently appears in the Latin phrase 'homo faber'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.