Meaning of elan in English

  1. Pronunciation

    /eɪˈlɑn/

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  1. Noun

    elan

    Etymology

    mid 19th century: from French élan, from élancer‘to dart’, from é-‘out’ + lancer‘to throw’

    Definitions

    1. a feeling of strong eagerness (usually in favor of a person or cause)

    Examples

    • « they were imbued with a revolutionary ardor »
    • « he felt a kind of religious zeal »
  2. 2. distinctive and stylish elegance

    Examples

    • « he wooed her with the confident dash of a cavalry officer »
  3. 3. enthusiastic and assured vigor and liveliness

    Examples

    • « a performance of great elan and sophistication »