Meaning of Word
Dapper refers to someone who is neat, stylish, and well-groomed, often used to describe a man’s appearance.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Neat, tidy, and elegant in appearance or dress.
- Smartly dressed, especially in a way that is refined or fashionable.
- Having a lively, alert, or spirited appearance.
History and Origin
The word dapper comes from the Middle English dapper, meaning “nimble” or “quick,” and later evolved to describe someone who was agile in appearance, or sprightly in character. By the 17th century, it began to be used to describe a well-dressed, polished individual, especially a man who was carefully put together.
Detailed Explanation
Dapper is most commonly used to describe men who are well-dressed in an elegant or fashionable way, often with attention to detail in their clothing, grooming, and overall appearance. The term conveys a sense of neatness, precision, and effort in presenting oneself. It can also sometimes imply a certain level of sophistication or charm. While it is typically associated with men, it may occasionally be used to describe women in certain contexts.
Example Sentences
- He looked dapper in his tailored suit and polished shoes.
- The groom appeared dapper on his wedding day, with his bow tie and sleek hairstyle.
- She smiled at the dapper man in the café, admiring his impeccable sense of style.
- The actor’s dapper appearance on the red carpet turned heads at the event.
- He always looked dapper, even when just running errands.
- With his dapper suit and crisp shirt, he was the picture of sophistication.
- The gentleman looked dapper as he stepped out of the car in his stylish coat.
- The office workers admired his dapper wardrobe and attention to detail.
- He prided himself on always looking dapper, whether at work or at social gatherings.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Stylish – Fashionable and elegant in appearance.
- Well-dressed – Neatly and appropriately dressed, often with attention to style.
- Smart – Neat and stylish, particularly in relation to clothing or appearance.
- Elegant – Graceful and refined in appearance or manner.
- Polished – Neat, refined, and sophisticated in appearance or manner.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Groomed – Well-cared for, particularly in terms of personal appearance and hygiene.
- Dashing – Attractive in a bold, adventurous, or charming way.
- Chic – Stylish and fashionable in a sophisticated or understated way.
- Sharp – Well-dressed and looking smart, often used for a man’s appearance.
- Refined – Cultured or sophisticated in manner or appearance.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Tailored – Custom-made or fitted to suit a person’s body shape, often used in reference to suits.
- Sartorial – Relating to clothing, especially men’s fashion.
- Spruce – Neat, tidy, or well-groomed in appearance.
- Polished – Smooth and elegant in appearance, often indicating attention to detail.
- Snappy – Smart and stylish, often with a sense of energy or flair.
Antonyms
- Shabby – Worn-out or untidy in appearance.
- Disheveled – Untidy or messy, lacking neatness.
- Sloppy – Careless or untidy in appearance or manner.
- Unkempt – Untidy or not properly groomed.
- Frumpy – Lacking style, elegance, or attractiveness in appearance.