elegantly
Meaning
in a graceful and stylish manner; tastefully.
in a pleasingly ingenious and simple manner; neatly.
Structure
Usage
she was dressed elegantly for the gala.
the problem was solved elegantly with a simple algorithm.
he bowed elegantly and left the stage.
Etymology
the adverb 'elegantly' is formed by adding the old english adverbial suffix '-ly' to the adjective 'elegant'. the core adjective originates from the latin verb ēligere, meaning 'to pick out, choose', which itself is a compound of ex- ('out') and legere ('to gather, choose'). the semantic evolution moved from the literal act of careful selection to the figurative sense of refined taste and superior quality. thus, 'elegantly' describes an action performed with the discernment and refined grace associated with something that has been 'chosen out' for its excellence.
Analysis
elegant: from latin elegant- (stem of elegans), meaning 'choice, fine, tasteful'. functions as the adjective root. ly: from old english -līce, an adverbial suffix forming adverbs from adjectives.