graceful
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
- gracefully adverb
- gracefulness noun
- nongraceful adjective
- nongracefulness noun
Etymology
Origin of graceful
A late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425; grace, -ful
Explanation
Use the adjective graceful to describe movements that are lovely and elegant. If you watch a yoga class, you'll see a variety of styles, ranging from awkward to graceful. Were some people born graceful? From their elegant way they move to their great timing and well-chosen words, being graceful does seem to come naturally to some. For others, it comes with practice and being focused. For example, the discipline of ballet makes dancers graceful — even when reaching for something on a high shelf at the grocery store.
Vocabulary lists containing graceful
Power Suffix: -ful
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"Seventh Grade" by Gary Soto
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A Single Shard
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ordinary Iranians have "an amazing culture of graceful kindness and absolute generosity", she said.
From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026
In a professional setting, like a networking event or gala, a graceful departure signals respect—whether it’s a quick “Wonderful to see you” or a subtle wave to the host.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026
Crockett, despite throwing very effective jabs, is less graceful when it comes to taking criticism.
From Slate • Mar. 3, 2026
Its opening sequence is both graceful and conspicuous; its exposition is entirely legible, yet so very charming that its plainness doesn’t matter one bit.
From Salon • Feb. 28, 2026
The witch motioned to one of the chairs in a long, graceful gesture that made Adelaide’s swan arms look jerky and pained in comparison.
From "Breadcrumbs" by Anne Ursu
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
