beaux esprits

[ boh zes-pree ]

/ boʊ zɛsˈpri /

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noun French.

plural of bel esprit: In an era ironically called the Enlightenment, these young women were discouraged from becoming beaux esprits.

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Sometimes beaux-es·prits .

Origin of beaux esprits

First recorded in 1630–40; see origin at bel esprit

There could be no better place to honor the art of dressmaking than the most prestigious art school: the Beaux Arts de Paris.
Tilda Swinton and Oliver Saillard Perform the Creation of Fashion in ‘Eternity Dress’|Sarah Moroz|November 21, 2013|DAILY BEAST
Outside, on the roof, the clock is flanked by more Beaux Arts touches: statues of Hercules, Mercury, and Minerva.
Grand Central Terminal: 100 Years, 100 Facts|Sarah Begley|February 1, 2013|DAILY BEAST
Drawing had been his first devotion, but he shifts to photography when he enters the Beaux-Arts de Paris.
Must-Reads: 'The Fat Years,' 'Drifting House,' and 'The Map and the Territory'|Isaac Stone Fish, Anna Clark, Cameron Martin|January 30, 2012|DAILY BEAST
But the French critic Louis de Fourcaud, writing in the Gazette des Beaux-Arts, called it a masterpiece of characterization.
The Scandal of Madame X|David McCullough|May 22, 2011|DAILY BEAST

Two weeks ago, journalists were arrested trying to capture shots of the Beaux Arts mansion where the wedding will take place.
Wedding Kicks Off!|Chris Wilson|July 30, 2010|DAILY BEAST
In the front rank of the railway service I do not remember many beaux.
Fifty Years of Railway Life in England, Scotland and Ireland|Joseph Tatlow
Both the young girls were dressed in their best; for they were going to a quilting-party, where they expected to meet many beaux.
The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 17, No. 101, March, 1866|Various
One of the beaux in the neighborhood expressed his admiration of it by saying "It beats all natur'."
The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 17, No. 101, March, 1866|Various
Four beaux—including father—handsomest of all; and but two belles—three—pardon me, Mrs. Dana.
Alone|Marion Harland
The dogs representing gentlemen were equipped, some as youthful, and others as aged beaux.
Minnie's Pet Dog|Madeline Leslie