elegance

noun

el·​e·​gance ˈe-li-gən(t)s How to pronounce elegance (audio)
Synonyms of elegancenext
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
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.
Spacious rooms and suites are among some of the largest in the city and reflect the elegance, refinement, and comfort long associated with Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 4 June 2026 Here are nine couches for small spaces that channel elegance without stuffiness. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 4 June 2026 Sure, long tips wrapped around an icy cocktail glass will always exude summer elegance—but don’t count short nails out. Annie Blay-Tettey, Allure, 4 June 2026 In the ’90s, Lilly Pulitzer was revived after its founder’s retirement, transitioning to stretchier fabrics yet keeping the same amount of elegance and femininity in every new release. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for elegance

Word History

First Known Use

1504, in the meaning defined at sense 1c

Time Traveler
The first known use of elegance was in 1504

Cite this Entry

“Elegance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elegance. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster