elegante
/eleˈɡante/
The English word "sleek" can be translated into Spanish as elegante.
The term is used to describe something that is smooth.
Meaning: smooth (adj)
Which one should you use?
estilizado/a is a formal way to say "sleek" meaning elegantly styled or trim.
How do you pronounce it?
/eleˈɡante/
Did you know?
- While 'sleek' in English is almost always a compliment, saying ¡Qué elegante! in Spanish can be a sarcastic way to mock someone who has just tripped or made a mess.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, calling someone muy elegante can be a subtle way to suggest they are overdressed for a casual occasion.
- While elegante is the direct translation for a sleek appearance, using it to describe a person's physical build might sound like you are commenting on their social class rather than their fitness.
Examples in context
- El diseño del automóvil es realmente estilizado.The car design is really sleek.
- Las líneas del nuevo edificio son pulcras y elegantes.The lines of the building are sleek and elegant.
- El teléfono tiene un diseño muy elegante.The phone has a very sleek design.
- El nuevo automóvil tiene un diseño estilizado y aerodinámico.The new car has a sleek and aerodynamic design.
- El diseño del coche es muy elegante.The car's design is very sleek.
- Lleva un vestido elegante para la fiesta.She is wearing a sleek dress for the party.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Lucía are at a modern furniture showroom.
- Alejandro¿Qué te parece esta mesa?What do you think of this table?
- LucíaEs muy elegante y moderna.It is very sleek and modern.
- AlejandroTienes razón, combina con la sala.You're right, it matches the living room.
- LucíaDeberíamos comprarla hoy mismo.We should buy it today.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry elegante, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
