noun
TV comedian; comedian
In modern Japanese, 芸人 most commonly refers to television comedians, especially those appearing on variety shows. Often used for members of comedy duos or groups.
彼は人気のあるお笑い芸人だ。
He is a popular TV comedian.
芸人になるために養成所に
I'm attending a training school to become a comedian.
noun
Broader sense for performers of traditional arts (e.g., rakugo, kabuki, noh) or general entertainers. Less common than the comedian sense in everyday speech.
彼は伝統芸能の芸人として舞台に立っている。
He performs on stage as a traditional performing artist.
noun
talented person; accomplished person
Rare, somewhat archaic usage referring to a person of talent or accomplishment in any field. Modern Japanese would more commonly use 才能のある人 or 有能な人.
古い文献では、芸人は単に「才能のある人」を指すこともある。
In old texts, 芸人 can simply mean 'a talented person'.