Main Entry: gra·cious

Pronunciation: \ˈgrā-shəs\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French gracieus, from Latin gratiosus enjoying favor, agreeable, from gratia

Date: 14th century

1 a obsolete : godly b archaic : pleasing, acceptable
2 a : marked by kindness and courtesy <a gracious host> b : graceful c : marked by tact and delicacy : urbane d : characterized by charm, good taste, generosity of spirit, and the tasteful leisure of wealth and good breeding <gracious living>
3 : merciful, compassionate —used conventionally of royalty and high nobility

— gra·cious·ly adverb

— gra·cious·ness noun

synonyms gracious, cordial, affable, genial, sociable mean markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse. gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration <the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues>. cordial stresses warmth and heartiness <our host was cordial as he greeted us>. affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals <though wealthy, she was affable to all>. genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality <a genial companion with a ready quip>. sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others <sociable people who enjoy entertaining>.