inelegance

[ in-el-i-guhns ]

noun

1. the quality or state of being inelegant; lack of elegance.
2. something that is inelegant or ungraceful.

Word History and Origins

Origin of inelegance¹

First recorded in 1720–30; ineleg(ant) + -ance

Example Sentences

To transmute such willful inelegance into high art would be a miracle indeed.

From New York Times

“Teach me how to not be afraid,” the clergyman, a composite figure of several acquaintances, asks Rustin, a line emblematic of the film’s occasional inelegance.

From Los Angeles Times

But this time he committed the twin sins of inelegance and indiscretion.

From New York Times

The sheer sublimity of this sequence — the eerie silence, the stillness and clarity of the image — stands in sharp contrast to the rest of the movie, which is framed with almost defiant inelegance.

From Los Angeles Times

Watching Ron live out this double-consciousness immediately triggered vivid memories of my own management of double consciousness — conducting that tricky dance that leaves no room for inelegance.

From The Guardian

Related Words

• indecency