elegantia
The English word "elegance" is translated into Latin as elegantia.
elegantia refers to grace, refinement and beauty in movement, appearance or manners.
Meaning: grace, refinement, and beauty in movement, appearance, or manners (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The form elegantiae is the dative singular, used when expressing something "to" or "for" elegance. The form elegantias is the accusative plural, used to represent multiple "elegances".
Did you know?
- In Roman society, elegantia was often viewed with suspicion by traditionalists who associated it with luxuria or excessive luxury. Too much refinement was sometimes seen as a sign of moral decay or foreign influence.
- While the English word 'elegant' suggests a certain delicacy, the Latin elegantia could describe the strength and precision of a well-constructed legal argument or a military formation.
- The root of elegantia comes from ēlegere, which means 'to pick out' or 'select'. To the Romans, elegance was not an innate quality but the result of carefully choosing the best elements.
Examples in context
- Elegantia vestimentorum eius miranda est.The elegance of her clothes is wonderful.
- In motu eius elegantia videtur.Elegance is seen in her movement.
- Marcus elegantiam in sermone suo habet.Marcus has elegance in his speech.
Example conversation
Julia and Marcus are admiring a sculpture in a garden.
- JuliaVide hanc statuam, Marce!Look at this statue, Marcus!
- MarcusIta, elegantia eius est incredibilis.Yes, its elegance is incredible.
- JuliaForma et gratia concordant.Form and grace agree.
- MarcusVere, opus magnum est.Truly, it is a great work.
