elegance

noun

el·​e·​gance ˈe-li-gən(t)s How to pronounce elegance (audio)
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.
While the episode follows Deborah after walking away from her Late Night series, the backdrop and elegance of Singapore follows both characters as Deborah attempts to do standup in a Singapore casino using a translator. Leia Mendoza, Variety, 14 Aug. 2025 A touch of flaky sea salt brings effortless elegance and flair. Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 13 Aug. 2025 Push button, Piano-style transmission is still present and proves Lincoln’s long-history of classic elegance is here to stay. Marc D Grasso, Hartford Courant, 9 Aug. 2025 This pair from Oak + Luna, available in both silver and gold, blends timeless elegance with a modern, trend-forward edge. Lauren Alexis Fisher, Footwear News, 7 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elegance

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1510, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of elegance was circa 1510

Cite this Entry

“Elegance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elegance. Accessed 22 Aug. 2025.

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

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