elan

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   energetic confidence, enthusiasm, and stylish flair

   The young conductor led the orchestra with remarkable elan.

Usually written elan or élan in English, from French élan, 'a rush, burst, or spirited impulse,' from élancer, 'to dart or launch forward.' The French verb combines é-, from Latin ex-, 'out,' with lancer, 'to throw or launch.'

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