What does slender mean?
“Slender” describes something that is thin, narrow, or delicately formed, especially a person’s body or a long, graceful object. The word often conveys elegance and refinement as well as a relatively small or slight size, which distinguishes it from more neutral terms such as “thin.” In descriptions of people, it commonly refers to a slim or graceful build, while for physical objects it can describe narrow stems, branches, fingers, or towers. The adjective is widely used in British and American English and has a somewhat formal or literary tone. Its connotations are generally positive when applied to form or movement, though it can also suggest frailty or insufficient substance when used of materials, structures, or evidence. In everyday use, “slender” is often interchangeable with “slim,” but it more often emphasizes graceful proportions rather than merely a low body weight.
adjectiveThin and graceful in form, especially in the context of a person or body. It can also mean slight, delicate, or not broad or substantial.
- Thin and graceful in form, especially in the context of a person or body.
- Narrow, slight, or delicate in shape or structure.
- Not strong or substantial; slight.
"The dancer moved across the stage with a slender, elegant bearing."
"She has a slender figure and a quiet, confident presence."
"The tree sent a few slender branches over the garden wall."
“Slender” can describe both a person’s build and an elegant, narrow object, giving it a graceful association beyond simple thinness.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slender come from?
The precise origin of “slender” is uncertain. The word was established in English by the late medieval period and developed into its modern adjective form through Middle English usage.
Related word forms
How slender is actually used
The word is generally formal or literary in style. It is often approving when describing a person’s build, but it can also be used neutrally for physical objects or structures.
Easily confused with slender
“Slender” means thin or gracefully slight, whereas “slander” means a false and damaging statement about someone.