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illustration Élan

Élan

[ey-LAN]

Part of speech: noun

Origin: French, mid-19th century

1.

Energy, style, and enthusiasm.

Examples of Élan in a sentence

"She was a star employee, demonstrating skill and élan with her work."

"She showed élan with her coordinated accessories and sophisticated fashion."

About Élan

"Élan" is a noun that means vigorous enthusiasm, but you might be forgiven for mistaking it for an adjective, because things are usually described as “with élan.” You do something with élan, but something is not AN élan.

Did you Know?

The accent on the "e" might be a giveaway, but this word for enthusiasm and spirit comes from French. "Élan" is a noun that means "vigorous enthusiasm." Things are often described as "done with élan" or "showing élan." You can do something with élan, but something is not AN élan.

illustration Élan

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