Elegant

Definition

Elegant refers to something or someone that is graceful, stylish, and sophisticated in appearance, manner, or design. It often conveys a sense of refined beauty or simplicity.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛlɪɡənt/
• Respelling: EL-i-guhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛlɪɡənt/
• Respelling: EL-i-guhnt

The pronunciation of "elegant" is identical in both American and British English, with minimal differences in regional accents.

Etymology

The word "elegant" originates from the Latin word "elegans," which means "tasteful" or "choice." It comes from "eligere," meaning "to select or choose." The term evolved in English to describe refined beauty or grace by the late 15th century.

Derivatives

• Elegance (noun)
• Elegantly (adverb)
• Elegancy (noun)
• Unelegant (adjective)
• Elegist (noun)

Synonyms

• Graceful
• Refined
• Chic

Antonyms

• Clumsy
• Unsophisticated
• Unrefined

Usage

The word "elegant" is often used to describe people, objects, designs, or ideas that are characterized by simplicity, grace, and style. It is frequently applied in fashion, architecture, and behavior to denote refinement.

Related Terms

• Grace: Smoothness and elegance of movement.
• Refinement: The improvement or polishing of something, especially behavior or appearance.
• Sophistication: The quality of being cultured, knowledgeable, and elegant.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Graceful and stylish in appearance or manner: Describes something or someone that is refined, tasteful, and often luxurious.
  • Example: "She looked elegant in her evening gown."
• Pleasingly simple and effective: Refers to designs, solutions, or concepts that are both efficient and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Example: "The architect's elegant design solved the problem beautifully."