First Known Use: 12th century
Dictionary
1grace
noun \ˈgrās\
: a way of moving that is smooth and attractive and that is not stiff or awkward
: a controlled, polite, and pleasant way of behaving
graces : skills that are needed for behaving in a polite way in social situations
Full Definition of GRACE
1
a : unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification b : a virtue coming from God c : a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace
2
a : approval, favor <stayed in his good graces> b archaic : mercy, pardon c : a special favor : privilege <each in his place, by right, not grace, shall rule his heritage — Rudyard Kipling> d : disposition to or an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency e : a temporary exemption : reprieve
3
a : a charming or attractive trait or characteristic b : a pleasing appearance or effect : charm <all the grace of youth — John Buchan> c : ease and suppleness of movement or bearing
4
—used as a title of address or reference for a duke, a duchess, or an archbishop
5
: a short prayer at a meal asking a blessing or giving thanks
6
plural capitalized : three sister goddesses in Greek mythology who are the givers of charm and beauty
7
: a musical trill, turn, or appoggiatura
8
a : sense of propriety or right <had the grace not to run for elective office — Calvin Trillin> b : the quality or state of being considerate or thoughtful
See grace defined for English-language learners
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Origin of GRACE
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin gratia favor, charm, thanks, from gratus pleasing, grateful; akin to Sanskrit gṛṇāti he praises
Related to GRACE
- Synonyms
- benevolence, boon, courtesy, favor, indulgence, kindness, mercy, service, turn
- Antonyms
- gracelessness, inelegance
Synonym Discussion of GRACE
mercy, charity, clemency, grace, leniency mean a disposition to show kindness or compassion. mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it <threw himself on the mercy of the court>. charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others <show a little charity for the less fortunate>. clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing <the judge refused to show clemency>. grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions <by the grace of God>. leniency implies lack of severity in punishing <criticized the courts for excessive leniency>.
Other Christian Religious Terms
2grace
verb
: to decorate or add beauty to (something)
gracedgrac·ing
Full Definition of GRACE
transitive verb
1
: to confer dignity or honor on
See grace defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of GRACE
1585
Related to GRACE
GRACE Defined for Kids
1grace
noun \ˈgrās\
Definition of GRACE for Kids
1
: a short prayer at a meal
2
: beauty and ease of movement
3
: pleasant, controlled, and polite behavior <social graces> <She handled the situation with grace.>
5
: the condition of being in favor <He tried to get in their good graces.>
2grace
verb
gracedgrac·ing
Definition of GRACE for Kids
1
: to do credit to : honor <Will you grace us with your presence?>
2
: to make more attractive : adorn <A fountain graces the garden.>
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