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.
These eye-catching ornaments with a touch of holiday sparkle are sure to add a hint of quiet elegance to any Christmas tree or wreath. Jacquleyn McGilvray, PEOPLE, 22 Nov. 2025 The shoes balance atop a four-inch heel that adds elegance to the look. Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 21 Nov. 2025 Hardly any other color conveys as much elegance as black. Naomi De Oliveira, Glamour, 19 Nov. 2025 Still, Carbino believes that the weekend’s fixation has little to do with the elegance of the line itself. Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 17 Nov. 2025 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 25 Nov. 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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