elegant

adjective

el·​e·​gant ˈe-li-gənt 

1

: marked by elegance

elegant clothes

an elegant solution

2

: of a high grade or quality : splendid

elegant gems priced at hundreds of thousands of dollars

elegantly adverb

Synonyms

• classy
• courtly
• fine
• graceful
• handsome
• majestic
• refined
• stately
• tasteful

Choose the Right Synonym for elegant

choice, exquisite, elegant, rare, delicate, dainty mean having qualities that appeal to a cultivated taste.

choice stresses preeminence in quality or kind.

choice fabric

exquisite implies a perfection in workmanship or design that appeals only to very sensitive taste.

an exquisite gold bracelet

elegant applies to what is rich and luxurious but restrained by good taste.

a sumptuous but elegant dining room

rare suggests an uncommon excellence.

rare beauty

delicate implies exquisiteness, subtlety, and fragility.

delicate craftsmanship

dainty sometimes carries an additional suggestion of smallness and of appeal to the eye or palate.

dainty sandwiches

Examples of elegant in a Sentence

an elegant solution to the problem

the most elegant First Lady in the nation's history

Recent Examples on the Web

Its classic trim with elegant details on each door can dress up a modern interior or pair with traditional decor to elevate any space. —Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 18 Feb. 2025

Among the standout pieces in the second H&M spring 2025 limited-edition Ramadan collection, semi-shiny satins, jacquards and hammered fabrics add an elegant and luxurious touch. —Julia Teti, WWD, 18 Feb. 2025

There are a variety of unique spaces that can accommodate large or small celebrations, from gorgeous outdoor wedding lawns, including the Lady Palm, the Areca, and the King Meadow Lawn, or inside in the elegant 14,000 sq ft. —Emily Strohm, People.com, 17 Feb. 2025

Popcorn pockets or whimsy peplums, Stone tends to lean into classic Hollywood glamor and elegant gowns. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 17 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin elegant-, elegans; akin to Latin eligere to select — more at elect

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

elegant

adjective

el·​e·​gant ˈel-i-gənt 

1

: having or showing elegance

2

: of excellent quality : splendid

elegantly adverb