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 Walnut also has a natural luster and smooth texture, giving it a luxurious finish that enhances the elegance of any space. Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2024 Ellie Goulding Ellie Goulding took inspiration from ethereal elegance with a contemporary edge for her look. Julia Teti, WWD, 26 June 2024 The way the characters loosely intersect before their inevitable team-up underlines the small-world feeling of South London and there’s some elegance in how Rapman and fellow director Sebastian Thiel have their paths cross. Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 June 2024 The location of the dining room at the aft end of the main deck serves two purposes: The owner can keep an eye on the fishing action in the cockpit while eating breakfast, but the space also exudes a sense of elegance (even with crimson-upholstered dining chairs) for formal dining. Kevin Koenig, Robb Report, 17 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for elegance 

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 15 Jul. 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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