Élan
/eɪˈlɑːn/noun
A distinctive style or flair, often conveying vitality and enthusiasm.
Did you know?The term 'élan' is rooted in the Old French word for 'to rush', reflecting a sense of spirited momentum and vibrancy in both life and art.
Etymological Timeline
Old French
Old French
eslan
“to rush or leap forward with energy.”
Latin
Latin
explanare
“to unfold, to spread out, often associated with the idea of expansion.”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*leḱ-
“to be strong, to be able, suggesting vitality and movement.”
Modern English
English
élan
“a term borrowed from French, reflecting a spirited, enthusiastic approach.”
Explore more surprising origins