elegance
UK[ˈel.ɪ.ɡəns]US[ˈel.ə.ɡəns]
n
the quality of being pleasing, graceful, and stylish in appearance or manner.
n
the quality of being pleasingly ingenious, simple, and effective.
Morpheme Breakdown
e
leg
ance
e
out
leg
to choose, to pick, to read
ance
Etymology
the word 'elegance' traces its lineage to the latin verb 'eligere', meaning 'to pick out' or 'to choose', itself formed from 'e-' (out) and 'legere' (to gather, pick, select). this literal sense of 'choosing what is best' evolved in latin 'elegantia' to denote refinement and good taste, the quality that results from discernment and careful selection. entering english via french in the early 16th century, it retained this core idea, describing a refined gracefulness that appears effortlessly chosen and appropriate. thus, the modern abstract meaning of tasteful beauty is logically rooted in the ancient concept of selective discernment.
Analysis
Structure: e + leg + ance
e- (latin, variant of 'ex-', meaning 'out'); -leg- (latin root 'legere', meaning 'to choose, to pick, to read'); -ance (latin suffix '-antia', forming nouns of state or quality).
Examples
she carried herself with an air of quiet elegance.
the elegance of the mathematical proof impressed the entire committee.
the hotel's interior is renowned for its classic elegance and attention to detail.