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In the 14th century, if someone told you that you had flair (or flayre as it was then commonly spelled), you might very well take offense. This is because in Middle English flayre meant "an odor." The word is derived from the Old French verb flairier ("to give off an odor"), which came, in turn, from Late Latin flagrare, itself an alteration of fragrare. (The English words fragrant and fragrance also derive from fragrare.) The "odor" sense of flair fell out of use, but in the 19th century, English speakers once again borrowed flair from the French—this time (influenced by the Modern French use of the word for the sense of smell) to indicate a discriminating sense or instinctive discernment.
Examples of flair in a Sentence
Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 17 June 2026
The Obamas joined Robin Roberts for a conversation on ABC's Good Morning America, and for the occasion, Michelle added her signature flair to a little black dress.
—Christina Perrier, InStyle, 17 June 2026
Another cookout must-have, these celebratory napkins add an extra touch of flair to your Fourth of July gathering.
—Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 17 June 2026
The square neckline and A-line skirt help balance the overall look, while the flouncy hem adds a bit of flair.
—Kate Donovan, Southern Living, 16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for flair
Cite this Entry
“Flair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flair. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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flair
noun
