Word: panache (noun)

Associations

"Panache" means a confident and stylish way of doing things. It often shows flair, energy, or a special charm.

• When someone speaks with panache, they speak in a lively and impressive way.
• A dancer performing with panache moves with grace and confidence.
• A chef cooking with panache creates dishes that are not only tasty but also beautiful and creative. A well-known synonym is "flair." The difference is that "panache" often includes a sense of boldness and showiness, while "flair" is more about natural talent or style.

Substitution

You can use words like:

• flair (natural talent or style)
• style (way of doing something)
• charisma (personal charm)
• elegance (graceful beauty) Each word changes the feeling slightly. For example, "charisma" focuses on personal charm, while "panache" includes boldness and confidence.

Deconstruction

"Panache" comes from French, where it originally meant a plume or feather on a helmet, symbolizing style and bravery. Over time, it came to mean stylish confidence or flair. There is no prefix or suffix here; it is a single noun borrowed from French.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a person you know who has panache? What do they do that shows it?
• How would you add panache to a simple activity, like giving a presentation or cooking?
• Do you think panache is something you can learn, or is it natural? Why?