elegance

noun

el·​e·​gance ˈe-li-gən(t)s 

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

Synonyms of elegance

• elegancy
• majesty
• refinement
• gracefulness

Examples of elegance in a Sentence

the elegance of the hotel's French furnishings

Recent Examples on the Web

These ornaments were originally intended to symbolize speed, elegance and technological optimism. —Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

Allowing both the powerful side of Grange Shiraz and the elegance of La Chapelle Syrah to shine through, the combination of the two far exceeds the sum of its parts. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 17 June 2026

The Casita towel perfectly captures the effortless elegance of a boutique hotel getaway. —Nina Derwin, Architectural Digest, 17 June 2026

South Africa away A lot of jersey designs, maybe even most, are going for simple elegance. —Ashley Fetters Maloy, Washington Post, 16 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1504, in the meaning defined at sense 1c

Kids Definition

elegance

noun

el·​e·​gance ˈel-i-gən(t)s 

1

: gracefulness of style or movement

2

: decoration or design that is rich but in good taste