tasteful

UK: ˈteɪstfl | US: ˈteɪstfəl

Definition
  1. adj. showing good aesthetic judgment or style

  2. adj. having a pleasant or refined flavor (less common)

Structure
taste <sense of flavor/style>ful <full of>
Etymology

The word "tasteful" combines "taste," derived from Old French taster (to touch, try, or judge), which evolved to mean both physical flavor perception and aesthetic discernment, with the suffix "-ful" (Old English -full), meaning "full of." By the 18th century, "tasteful" emerged to describe objects or behaviors reflecting refined judgment, aligning with "taste" as a metaphor for cultural sophistication.

Examples
  1. The gallery displayed a tasteful collection of modern art.

  2. She wore a tasteful dress to the formal event.

  3. The interior design was simple yet tasteful.

  4. His speech included tasteful humor that delighted the audience.

  5. The restaurant served tasteful dishes with elegant presentation.