debonair
/,debə'neə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having a cheerful, lively, and self-confident air or manner: Describes someone who appears carefree, charming, and confident, often in a sophisticated way.
- Suave, urbane, and charming: Describes a person, typically a man, who is elegantly stylish, courteous, and socially adept.
Usage
The word "debonair" is used to describe a person's overall demeanor, appearance, or style. It emphasizes a combination of lighthearted confidence, grace, and polished manners. It is a formal and somewhat literary term.
Examples
- Adjective:
- He had a debonair charm that made him popular at social gatherings.
- Despite the pressure, the CEO maintained a debonair composure throughout the interview.
- The actor played the role of a debonair spy, always impeccably dressed and unflappable.
Advanced Usage
- "debonair indifference": A sophisticated, carefree lack of concern.
- He faced the criticism with debonair indifference, refusing to let it bother him.
Variants and Related Words
- Debonairly (adverb): In a debonair manner.
- He bowed debonairly to the guests.
Synonyms
- Jaunty: Having a lively, cheerful, and self-confident manner.
- Suave: Charming, confident, and elegant.
- Urbane: Sophisticated and courteous, especially in a city-based context.
- Nonchalant: Feeling or appearing casually calm and relaxed.
Antonyms
- Awkward: Lacking grace or social skills.
- Gauche: Lacking social grace; tactless.
- Uncouth: Lacking good manners, refinement, or grace.
Adjective
- having a cheerful, lively, and self-confident air
- looking chipper, like a man...diverted by his own wit- Frances G. Patton
- life that is gay, brisk, and debonair- H.M.Reynolds
- walked with a jaunty step
- a jaunty optimist
- having a sophisticated charm
- a debonair gentleman