Beauty

Definition

Beauty is a noun that refers to a quality that gives pleasure to the senses, especially sight, or to the mind. It can describe something or someone aesthetically pleasing or attractive, as well as a characteristic that is highly admired or valued.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbjuːti/
• Respelling: BYOO-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbjuːti/
• Respelling: BYOO-tee

Etymology

The word "beauty" originates from the Old French "beaute," which itself derived from Latin "bellus," meaning "fine" or "beautiful." The term entered English in the 14th century to describe qualities that inspire admiration or pleasure.

Derivatives

• Beautiful (adjective)
• Beautify (verb)
• Beauteous (adjective)
• Beautician (noun)
• Beautyful (informal adjective)

Synonyms

• Attractiveness
• Elegance
• Charm

Antonyms

• Ugliness
• Plainness
• Unattractiveness

Usage

The term "beauty" is often used to describe physical appeal or aesthetic pleasure, but can also describe qualities of admiration in non-physical aspects. For example, "The beauty of the landscape was breathtaking," or "She is known for her inner beauty."

Related Terms

• Aesthetic: Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty.
• Grace: Simple elegance or refinement of movement.
• Elegance: The quality of being graceful and stylish in appearance or manner.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The quality that provides pleasure to the senses or the mind: Refers to a characteristic that elicits admiration, especially in an aesthetic context.
  • Example: "The beauty of the sunset left them speechless."
• A particularly pleasing or attractive individual or thing: Describes a person, place, or object that is visually appealing.
  • Example: "She was known as a great beauty in her youth."
• An outstanding example or admirable quality: Refers to something that exemplifies excellence or admiration beyond physical appearance.
  • Example: "The beauty of her kindness touched everyone she met."