I. ˈgrās noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin gratia favor, charm, thanks, from gratus pleasing, grateful; akin to Sanskrit gṛṇāti 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
II. transitive verb
( graced ; grac·ing )
Date: 1585
1. : to confer dignity or honor on
2. : adorn , embellish
graveled walks graced with statues — J. A. Michener