English Reference
Adverb

elegantly

adv.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈɛɫɪɡəntˌɫi/ UK /ˈɛlɪɡəntli/ el·e·gant·ly

adv.in a way that is very graceful and beautiful. You use this to describe something that looks or works perfectly without any extra effort.

adv.in a manner that is graceful, refined, and aesthetically pleasing. Often describes the execution of a task or the appearance of an object.


SIMPLE

She elegantly solved the difficult problem.

CONTEXTUAL

The new software allows you to elegantly organize your files without any complicated steps.

COMPLEX

The architect designed the building to elegantly blend modern glass with traditional stone, creating a structure that felt both contemporary and timeless.

Austin has a beautiful face (when she smiles, she’s got a touch of Debbie Harry), walks with a stick, and is elegantly but unobtrusively dressed.

The Guardian· 1 Sept 2026

From elegant + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated