dapper
UK[ˈdæpə]US[ˈdæpər]
adj
(especially of a man) neat and trim in dress and appearance; stylish.
Etymology
The word 'dapper' entered English in the late 15th century from Middle Low German or Middle Dutch, where 'dapper' originally meant "quick, nimble, strong, or bold." This sense of energetic vigor and alertness is the conceptual bridge to its modern meaning. Over time in English, the association with brisk, lively energy became metaphorically linked to a neat, brisk, and alert appearance. By the 18th century, the meaning had fully shifted to describe a man who is trim, spruce, and stylishly neat in his dress, retaining a connotation of lively smartness rather than mere formality.
Analysis
The word is a simplex form. It is a loanword from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German 'dapper' meaning "quick, strong, bold."
Examples
He arrived at the party looking very dapper in a tailored suit and bow tie.
The old gentleman was always dapper, with a perfectly knotted tie and polished shoes.
For the wedding, the groom and his groomsmen all looked remarkably dapper.