WordGarden.ioelegant
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛlɪɡənt/
US
- /ˈɛləɡənt/
Meanings
Adjective
graceful, stylish, and refined in appearance, manner, or design
pleasingly simple, effective, and well designed
Beyond the definition
Think of a swan gliding across a lake - that is what this word feels like. It describes something with grace, style, and good taste in the way it looks or moves. An elegant solution to a problem is not just effective; it is simple, clever, and satisfying. You might use it for a beautifully decorated room, a well-designed dress, or the calm way someone carries themselves. It is usually not about being expensive or flashy. Instead, it suggests beauty, control, and a simple kind of class.
The word "elegant" goes beyond simply being beautiful or attractive; it suggests grace, good taste, and a polished quality. It often describes something that feels smooth, balanced, and carefully done. In many cases, it points to simplicity and quiet beauty rather than anything loud or showy.
You might describe an elegant solution to a complex problem - one that is not only effective but also simple and clever in the best way. An elegant design in architecture, fashion, or furniture is attractive without feeling too busy. A person with elegant manners moves and speaks with calm grace, showing ease and respect for others. The word can also fit writing, dance, movement, or even scientific ideas when they seem clear, neat, and beautifully put together.
While something can be beautiful without being elegant, this word usually adds the idea of control, restraint, and good judgment. It often suggests that nothing is extra and nothing feels out of place. That is why a simple black dress, a clean piece of code, a well-turned sentence, or a smart mathematical proof can all be called elegant.
So whether you are talking about a room, a person, a design, a piece of writing, or a solution to a problem, "elegant" carries the idea of grace, style, and simple excellence. It is a word for beauty with control and for skill that looks effortless.
Examples
- 1
Clothing
She wore a simple but elegant black dress to the wedding.
- 2
Interior design
The hotel lobby looked elegant without feeling too formal.
- 3
Writing style
He writes in a clear, elegant style.
- 4
Dance movement
The dancer's movements were slow and elegant.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Typography
They chose an elegant font for the invitations.
- 6
Problem solving
It's an elegant solution to a messy problem.
- Phrasean elegant solution
a clever, simple solution
- 7
Simple design
The design is elegant in its simplicity.
- Phraseelegant in its simplicity
attractive because it is simple
- 8
Conflict avoidance
She gave an elegant answer that ended the argument without offending anyone.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- elegant design
- elegant dress
- elegant prose
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- elegantadjective