dandyism

noun

dan·​dy·​ism ˈdan-dē-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce dandyism (audio)
1
: the style or conduct of a dandy
2
: a literary and artistic style of the latter part of the 19th century marked by artificiality and excessive refinement

Examples of dandyism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tailoring Black Style looks at the cultural and historical significance of Black dandyism from the 18th century to today. Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025 By adopting and adapting elements traditionally associated with male dandyism—pocket squares, suspenders, watch chains, and immaculate shirting—these women craft identities that refuse the limitations of both racialized and gendered expectations. Skylar Mitchell, Essence, 12 May 2025 Tailoring Black Style, honoring the fashion of Black dandyism. Jay Stahl, USA Today, 8 May 2025 The dress code for the evening was Tailored for You and celebrated the history of Black dandyism. Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 7 May 2025 Though dandyism may be a new word for some, its concept is all too familiar. Taryn Finley, Refinery29, 6 May 2025 It’s been 22 years since Diana Ross graced the Met Gala with her iconic presence, but last night at the 2025 Met Gala celebrating Black dandyism, the legendary singer made her return—in epic style, no less. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 6 May 2025 If dandyism is, at least in part, a kind of showy restraint—being seen on purpose without caring so much about how the spectacle is apprehended by others—this was something like its zenith. Vinson Cunningham, New Yorker, 6 May 2025 The singer’s classy pinstripe Marc Jacobs ensemble with a polka dot cravat and oversized hat celebrated the night’s theme of Black style and dandyism. Jade Walker, CNN Money, 6 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of dandyism was in 1819

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Cite this Entry

“Dandyism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dandyism. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

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