Characterized by graceful beauty, sophistication, or refinement in appearance, manner, or design. Simple and effective in achieving desired results without unnecessary complexity.
From Latin 'elegans' meaning choice, fine, or tasteful, from 'eligere' meaning to choose or select. The sense evolved from 'carefully chosen' to 'refined through careful selection' to the modern meaning of graceful sophistication.
In mathematics and programming, an 'elegant' solution is prized above all others - one that solves a complex problem with surprising simplicity and beauty. This technical usage perfectly captures the word's essence: true elegance emerges when complexity is distilled to its purest, most effective form.
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