elegance

noun

el·​e·​gance ˈe-li-gən(t)s How to pronounce elegance (audio)
1
a
: refined grace or dignified propriety : urbanity
b
: tasteful richness of design or ornamentation
the sumptuous elegance of the furnishings
c
: dignified gracefulness or restrained beauty of style : polish
the essay is marked by lucidity, wit, and elegance
d
: scientific precision, neatness, and simplicity
the elegance of a mathematical proof
2
: something that is elegant

Examples of elegance in a Sentence

the elegance of the hotel's French furnishings
Recent Examples on the Web This wedding season a dress like that will evoke sheer elegance. Essence, 9 Apr. 2024 Expert docents lead visitors into the elegance of the Victorian era, exploring its architectural and historical attributes, with engaging stories. Journal Sentinel, 5 Apr. 2024 Maty’s, which pays tribute to Chang’s grandmother and the elegance of Peruvian home cooking, was also named one of the best new restaurants in 2023 by Bon Appétit and Esquire. Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 3 Apr. 2024 But what about one that seamlessly crosses over into daytime elegance territory? Alexis Bennett Parker, Vogue, 2 Apr. 2024 The vessel itself is designed to evoke all the elegance of your favorite Four Seasons. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 27 Mar. 2024 Anthropologie boasts a dedicated bridal section on its website, showcasing a diverse array of dress styles, from modern elegance to boho chic. Jordan Greene, Peoplemag, 22 Mar. 2024 Yai and her guests took over the New York night with elegance and fierce style. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 25 Mar. 2024 Fine Dining Training Takes to the Skies Around the corner at the Singapore Airlines Training Center, the carrier’s cabin crew are trained to serve all passengers with elegance, grace, and of course, safety, in mind. Chris Dong, Travel + Leisure, 25 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'elegance.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1510, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of elegance was circa 1510

Dictionary Entries Near elegance

Cite this Entry

“Elegance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elegance. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

elegance

noun
el·​e·​gance ˈel-i-gən(t)s How to pronounce elegance (audio)
1
: gracefulness of style or movement
2
: decoration or design that is rich but in good taste

More from Merriam-Webster on elegance

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