noun
grace
grays
noun
1
Smooth, elegant movement or manner.
"The dancer moved across the stage with remarkable grace."
2
A short prayer of thanks said before or after a meal.
"Grandpa always says grace before Sunday dinner."
3
A short extra period of time allowed before a deadline or obligation takes effect.
"The bank gives you a 30-day grace period before charging late fees."
4
Unearned kindness or favor, especially divine mercy in religious contexts.
"She spoke of God's grace helping her through the illness."
verb
1
To add elegance or honor to something by one's presence or by decorating it.
"A stunning chandelier graced the ballroom ceiling."
"The mayor graced the opening with a short speech."
How to Use Grace
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishElegant movement, a thank-you prayer, an extension before a deadline, or unearned kindness/favor.
Common mistake
Don't confuse "grace period" (extra allowed time) with simply "leniency" — a grace period is usually a formally set window, not just informal forgiveness.
Common pairings
say grace
grace period
fall from grace
with grace and dignity
Word Forms
graced past tense, graces plural, Graces plural, graces singular
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The dancer moved across the stage with remarkable _____.
Etymology
From Old French grace, from Latin gratia, "favor" or "charm", related to gratus, "pleasing" — the same root as "grateful" and "gratitude".