graceful

adjective

grace·​ful ˈgrās-fəl 

: displaying grace (see grace entry 1 sense 3) in form or action : pleasing or attractive in line, proportion, or movement

a graceful dancer

gracefully

ˈgrās-fə-lē 

adverb

gracefulness noun

Synonyms

• agile
• nimble
• balletic
• lissom
• gracile
• lithe
• lithesome
• spry
• lissome
• feline

Examples of graceful in a Sentence

He has become a very graceful dancer.

the graceful movements of a ballerina

She was a graceful young woman with delicate features.

the long, graceful neck of a swan

His writing is clear and graceful.

There was no graceful way to say no to their offer.

Recent Examples on the Web

Tapping into traditional craft methods, from woodworking and stone mining to hammering metal, Gerlach&Heilig utilizes modern systems and tools (laser cutting, CNC milling) to design contemporary furnishings that embrace a graceful, minimal simplicity. —Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 23 Sep. 2025

Another highlight was the graceful Otoro (fatty bluefin belly) nigiri. —Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 22 Sep. 2025

Planning for sequel migration or graceful buy-back programs can help keep the community calm. —Dmitrii Khasanov, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025

Though the two megastars may now be on different paths, LeBron’s diplomatic and graceful tone suggests the door isn’t completely closed. —Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 18 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see grace entry 1

First Known Use

1557, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for graceful

• disgraceful
• ungraceful