svelte
UK: svelt | US: svelt
adj. slender and elegant in figure or posture
adj. gracefully thin or streamlined
The word "svelte" originates from Italian "svelto," meaning "slender" or "quick," derived from the Latin "evellere" (to pluck or stretch out). The Italian form evolved to emphasize gracefulness and slimness, later adopted into French as "svelte" with the same meaning. The English borrowing in the 19th century retained the sense of refined thinness, often associated with elegance. The morpheme "svel-" hints at the idea of being "drawn out" (like stretching), while "-te" serves as an adjectival marker.
The model’s svelte figure captivated the audience.
He maintained a svelte physique through yoga and a balanced diet.
The car’s svelte design improved its aerodynamics.
Her svelte silhouette stood out in the crowd.
The dancer moved with svelte grace across the stage.