grace

I. noun Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin gratia favor, charm, thanks, from gratus pleasing, grateful; akin to Sanskrit gṛṇāti he praises Date: 12th century 1. a. unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification b. a virtue coming from God c. a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace 2. a. approval, favor <

stayed in his good graces

> b. archaic mercy, pardon c. a special favor ; privilege <

each in his place, by right, not grace, shall rule his heritage — Rudyard Kipling

> d. disposition to or an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency e. a temporary exemption ; reprieve 3. a. a charming or attractive trait or characteristic b. a pleasing appearance or effect ; charm <

all the grace of youth — John Buchan

> c. ease and suppleness of movement or bearing 4. — used as a title of address or reference for a duke, a duchess, or an archbishop 5. a short prayer at a meal asking a blessing or giving thanks 6. plural, capitalized three sister goddesses in Greek mythology who are the givers of charm and beauty 7. a musical trill, turn, or appoggiatura 8. a. sense of propriety or right <

had the grace not to run for elective office — Calvin Trillin

> b. the quality or state of being considerate or thoughtful Synonyms: see mercy II. transitive verb (graced; gracing) Date: 1585 1. to confer dignity or honor on 2. adorn, embellish <

graveled walks graced with statues — J. A. Michener

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