elegance

noun

el·​e·​gance ˈe-li-gən(t)s 

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

Synonyms of elegance

• elegancy
• majesty
• refinement
• gracefulness

Examples of elegance in a Sentence

the elegance of the hotel's French furnishings

Recent Examples on the Web

Opposite the magnificent eighteenth-century Grand Théatre, the 150-room Regent Grand perfectly mirrors the aristocratic elegance of this lovely city, thanks to the exquisite interiors of designer Jacques Garcia. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Oct. 2026

Last May at the Cannes Film Festival, Cruz sported Chanel’s contemporary elegance, wearing a black gown with an asymmetrical cut and tufts of black fabric on the shoulder and right thigh. — Erin Wisti, Footwear News, 11 Oct. 2026

Elijah Trevitt captures Bosie’s elegance and impetuousness, and Callum Linnane both the effervescence of Wilde at his peak and the pathos of his decline. — Hannah Aizenman, New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2026

While the look nods to Carolyn Bessette Kennedy with its restrained elegance, the final product is decidedly Giulia’s own. — Alexandra MacOn, Vogue, 10 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1504, in the meaning defined at sense 1c

Kids Definition

elegance

noun

el·​e·​gance ˈel-i-gən(t)s 

1

: gracefulness of style or movement

2

: decoration or design that is rich but in good taste