grace

The word “grace” means smooth, elegant movement or manner. In plain terms, elegant movement, a thank-you prayer, an extension before a deadline, or unearned kindness/favor.

“Grace” is pronounced grays (/ɡɹeɪs/ in IPA).

Here is “grace” used in a sentence: “The dancer moved across the stage with remarkable grace.”

Words with a similar meaning to “grace” include mense.

Depending on how it is used, “grace” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “grace” comes from Latin. From Old French grace, from Latin gratia, "favor" or "charm", related to gratus, "pleasing" — the same root as "grateful" and "gratitude".

“Grace” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Grace” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: smooth, elegant movement or manner.

The two overlap and are often used together. Grace refers mainly to smooth, flowing, effortless movement — the way someone moves through space. Elegance is broader, describing refined, tasteful style in movement, dress, or design. A dancer can move with grace; their whole look and manner can be described as elegant.

Yes. While some people seem naturally graceful, poise and smooth movement can be developed through practice. Disciplines such as dance, ballet, yoga, martial arts, and posture training all cultivate balance, control, and fluid motion. Over time, awkward or stiff movement can become noticeably more relaxed, coordinated, and elegant.

Very much so. In the sense of movement and manner, grace is entirely complimentary, suggesting beauty, ease, and control. Describing someone as graceful is high praise. The word also carries positive meanings elsewhere — kindness, forgiveness, and a short prayer before a meal — but the shared thread is something admirable and dignified.