graceful

adjective

ˈgrās-fəl How to pronounce graceful (audio)
Definition of gracefulnext
1
as in agile
moving easily the graceful ballerina effortlessly leapt across the stage

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in elegant
having or showing elegance sat down in the old plantation home's very graceful parlor

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of graceful The slender metal frame swoops into a graceful curve, with a petite tray branching off to one side—a perfect perch for your favorite candle or a warm drink. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 26 Oct. 2026 Its glossy sheen catches the light beautifully, giving it the rich luminosity of a mirror-finish dark chocolate bar, while its graceful drape keeps the bed from looking overly styled. — Vivien Lee, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2026 My accommodations unfolded in a graceful series of rooms with couches, a four-poster bed, and a dual-vanity bathroom. — Samantha Falewée, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Oct. 2026 The brusque treatment of an executive of Bajaria’s stature is a sign that no one is safe from scrutiny, and no one should ever count on making a graceful exit. — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for graceful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for graceful
  1. agile
  2. elegant
  3. nimble
  4. handsome
  5. balletic
  6. fine
  7. gracile
  8. majestic
Adjective
  • Parallel to the agile final assembly line, Lockheed Martin stood up a dedicated automation cell that runs side‑by‑side with each tactical build.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 5 Nov. 2026
  • All of which suggest that long-term competitive advantage will rely on building agile, transparent and technology-backed supply networks.
    — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of agile
Adjective
  • The sinking marks a bittersweet coda to the era of gleaming behemoths that crossed the seas in elegant fashion.
    — Henry Larson, NPR, 12 Nov. 2026
  • Lack of crown aside (which, TBH, would be a bit much for an elegant small dinner), Tyler's makeup also felt extremely Arwen-esque.
    — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 11 Nov. 2026
Definition of elegant
Adjective
  • The partnership’s goal is a nimble, creative and competent federal government that addresses the complex needs of the nation.
    — John T. Shaw, Chicago Tribune, 8 Nov. 2026
  • The problem for the Heat defense is one that requires nimble defenders, who can both take away the 3-point line and stop direct-line drives to the rim.
    — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 8 Nov. 2026
Definition of nimble
Adjective
  • The sectional version of contributor Lila Allen’s Kipton sofa has a handsome discount totalling 25% off during the brand’s current furniture sale (20% off orders of $2,000 or more, and 25% off orders of $5,000 or more).
    — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Both lead to Green-Wood's surprisingly handsome resident arborist, Adam Chervinsky.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026
Definition of handsome
Adjective
  • As sculptural and balletic as these performers could be, the trancelike languor of classical dance was conspicuously absent.
    — Nolan Kelly, Artforum, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Atwell displays a balletic athleticism while Hiddleston is all enthusiastic limbs and snake hips.
    — Zing Tsjeng, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of balletic
Adjective
  • But this commitment to the best, and the possibility for newness on menus, presents an arguably more interesting fine dining experience.
    — Nathan Tavares, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Nov. 2026
  • The machinery is absolutely amazing, with this very fine needle and very fine thread.
    — Ramin Setoodeh, Variety, 5 Nov. 2026
Definition of fine
Adjective
  • Alvarezsaurs were predominantly small, with stubby but powerful forelimbs, long and gracile hindlimbs and lightly built skulls.
    — Reuters, NBC news, 26 Feb. 2026
  • Hawkins misplaced horns and spikes, and some of his robust four-legged dinosaurs were actually gracile bipeds.
    — Yannic Rack, Smithsonian Magazine, 29 Aug. 2023
Definition of gracile
Adjective
  • These were majestic art objects but in the hands of skilled puppeteers, the Sicilian marionettes shows could also erupt into wild, raw, bloodthirsty warfare.
    — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 8 Nov. 2026
  • But some of the most technically challenging scenes, according to director Travis Knight, aren’t the ones that look the most majestic.
    — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 4 Nov. 2026
Definition of majestic

Browse Nearby Words

graced
graceful
gracefulness
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Cite this Entry

“Graceful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/graceful. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

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