n.
Pronunciation: ' gr ā s
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin gratia favor, charm, thanks, from gratus pleasing, grateful; akin to Sanskrit g ṛ ṇ ā ti he praises
Date: 12th century
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 grace s > 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
synonyms see MERCY