1 elegance | Definition of elegance

elegance

noun
el·​e·​gance | \ ˈe-li-gən(t)s How to pronounce elegance (audio) \

Definition of elegance

1a : 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

Keep scrolling for more

Examples of elegance in a Sentence

the elegance of the hotel's French furnishings

Recent Examples on the Web

Freddy Cole sang the golden oldie with characteristic ease and elegance, accompanied in duet fashion by son Lionel Cole. — Howard Reich, chicagotribune.com, "Jazz Fest review: Freddy Cole evokes sweet memories of brother Nat King Cole," 30 Aug. 2019 But for Steinerberger and coauthor Samuel G.B Johnson, beauty is made up of nine separate components: seriousness, universality, profundity, novelty, clarity, simplicity, elegance, intricacy, and sophistication. — David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, "Math Is As Beautiful As Art," 15 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'elegance.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

See More

First Known Use of elegance

circa 1510, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Keep scrolling for more

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for elegance

elegance

noun
el·​e·​gance | \ ˈe-li-gəns How to pronounce elegance (audio) \

Kids Definition of elegance

1 : gracefulness of style or movement There was something painfully beautiful about the swans … the elegance of them … made Sara catch her breath …— Betsy Byars, The Summer of the Swans
2 : tasteful luxury The hotel was known for its elegance.

Keep scrolling for more

More from Merriam-Webster on elegance

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for elegance

Spanish Central: Translation of elegance

Nglish: Translation of elegance for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of elegance for Arabic Speakers