# Belle Époque

> English word · Proper noun

## Definitions
1. A period of European history, extending over several decades until the start of the First World War, characterized by artistic and cultural refinement.
2. (aesthetic) A style of art and architecture characterized by opulence, eclecticism, and organic dynamism, blending historical revival styles (Neo-Baroque, Neo-Gothic) with the flowing lines of Art Nouveau, utilizing new materials like iron and glass for decorative elements, and celebrating modern life with vibrant colors and natural motifs, reflecting the era's optimism, luxury, and technological progress.

## Etymology
Borrowed from French Belle Époque (“good epoch”). See belle + epoque.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/belle-epoque