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Synonyms

graceful

American  
[greys-fuhl] / ˈgreɪs fəl /

adjective

  1. characterized by elegance or beauty of form, manner, movement, or speech; elegant: a graceful reply.

    a graceful dancer;

    a graceful reply.

    Synonyms:
    lissome, lithe, limber

graceful British  
/ ˈɡreɪsfʊl /

adjective

  1. characterized by beauty of movement, style, form, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

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.

Ward conceded "there are more graceful ways you can do that".

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

I swerved around them as they dashed into the woods, graceful as gazelles.

From "The Old Willis Place" by Mary Downing Hahn