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élan

enthusiasm, momentum

noun eh-LAHN Rare
Mind & Emotions Emotions

Origin: Old French eslancer (to hurl forward)

Also means

moose (animal)

Usage Note

Élan in its primary sense describes a surge of energy or enthusiasm — avec élan means 'with gusto.' The same word also denotes the Eurasian elk (moose). English borrowed the word in its figurative sense. The final -n is nasal; the 'n' is not pronounced as a separate consonant.

Examples

"Elle a repris son travail avec élan."

Natural Translation

She resumed her work with enthusiasm.

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