Word of the day: Sprezzatura

Sprezzatura

[sprets-ə-TYOOR-ə]

Part of speech: noun

Origin: Italian, early 15th century

Studied carelessness, especially as a characteristic quality or style of art or literature.

Examples of sprezzatura in a sentence

"Leo's artwork demonstrates enviable sprezzatura."

"The mural seems unfinished at a quick glance, but it's actually a lovely example of sprezzatura."

About Sprezzatura

Sprezzatura was coined by Italian aristocrat Baldassare Castiglione in the early 1500s. Castiglione intended to encourage other aristocrats to remain composed and carefree even in the most pressing situations.

Did you Know?

Some artists might claim to work in an unstudied, sprezzatura style, but not everyone can be the next Picasso or Jackson Pollock. It takes hard work and artistic focus to imbue a doodle with intention.