French word

élégance

Pronunciation

IPA/elegɑ̃s/

Meaning

  • feminine noungrace

Example

La danseuse bouge avec élégance.

The dancer moves with grace.

Illustration for élégance (grace)

More examples

Il a répondu à la critique avec élégance.

He responded to the criticism with elegance.

Core concept

A poised movement or appearance in which proportions, details, and manner work together without excess.

Common phrases

  • avec élégance

    with elegance

  • faire preuve d'élégance

    show elegance

  • manquer d'élégance

    lack elegance

Similar words

chic: A stylish, polished look that appears fashionable and well put together.
grâce: A graceful beauty evident in soft, fluid movements and gestures.
allure: The general air suggested by someone's manner of walking and carrying themselves.
style: A distinctive and consistent taste shown through clothing and behavior.

Definition in French

Disposition ou aspect montrant du goût, de la finesse et une présentation harmonieuse.

Word origin

French élégance comes from Latin elegantia, based on elegans, meaning refined or tasteful, and related to eligere, meaning to choose.

Usage tips

  • As an abstract feminine noun, élégance commonly appears in avec élégance and can describe movement, speech, design, or conduct, not only clothing.

Other meanings

  • elegancenoun
  • sophisticationnoun

Opposites

  • laideuruglinessnoun
  • vulgaritévulgaritynoun

Related words

  • élégantelegantadjective
  • élégammentelegantlyadverb

Word lists with this word