adjectiveadverb

elegant

Etwas oder jemand wirkt geschmackvoll, stilvoll und ansprechend, oft mit einer ruhigen und edlen Ausstrahlung.

Definition & meaning

The word elegant is used to describe something characterized by refined grace, beauty, or style. In a social or fashion context, it refers to an appearance or behavior that is sophisticated, tasteful, and polished. For example, a person's clothing, a hotel's interior, or a dancer's movements can be described as elegant.

In a scientific, mathematical, or technical context, the word has a slightly different nuance. Here, it describes a solution, a proof, or a design that is surprisingly simple, efficient, and clever. An elegant solution is one that solves a complex problem with the least amount of effort or unnecessary parts.

Grammar & Word origin

The word functions as an adjective and an adverb. It follows standard German declension patterns when used before a noun. The comparative forms are eleganter and am elegantesten.

The word was borrowed into German in the 18th century from the French word "élégant". Its deeper roots are found in the Latin word "elegans", which is related to the verb "eligere", meaning "to choose" or "to select". Historically, someone who was elegant was seen as someone who had the ability to choose the best and most refined options.