Grace

Definition

Grace often refers to the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings. It can also describe a smooth and elegant movement or manner, or a short prayer of thanks said before or after a meal.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡreɪs/
• Respelling: GRAYS (with "GRAY" as in "gray" and "S" as in "yes")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡreɪs/
• Respelling: GRAYS (with "GRAY" as in "gray" and "S" as in "yes")

In both dialects, "grace" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "GRAYS."

Etymology

Derived from the Old French "grace", from Latin "gratia", meaning "favor, kindness, esteem". Related to the Latin "gratus", meaning "pleasing" or "thankful".

Derivatives

• Graceful (adjective)
• Gracious (adjective)
• Gracefulness (noun)
• Graceless (adjective)
• Gracefulness (noun)

Synonyms

• Elegance
• Blessing
• Mercy

Antonyms

• Awkwardness
• Disfavor
• Curse

Usage

The term "grace" is used in various contexts, including social manners, aesthetics, religious discourse, and personal qualities. It describes the beauty of movement and decorum, the kindness or goodwill extended by individuals, and the theological concept of divine favor. In culinary traditions, "grace" refers to a prayer of thanks before or after eating.

Related Terms

• Dignity
• Poise
• Blessing
• Favour
• Charm

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Grace (Elegance and Beauty):
  • Aesthetic Quality: A quality of moving in a smooth, relaxed, and attractive way; beauty in form or action.
    • Example: The dancer moved with incredible grace, captivating the audience.
  • Manner or Behavior: Refinement and beauty of manner; courteous goodwill.
    • Example: She accepted the award with grace and humility.
• Grace (Favor and Goodwill):
  • Kindness or Favor: An act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency.
    • Example: He showed great grace in forgiving the mistakes of others.
• Grace (Theology):
  • Divine Favor: In Christian theology, the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.
    • Example: The concept of grace is central to many Christian teachings.
• Grace (Prayer):
  • Prayer of Thanks: A short prayer of thanks said before or after a meal.
    • Example: They said grace before dinner, thanking for the food and blessings.

Verb

• To Adorn or Add Elegance To: To honor or favor someone or something with one's presence.
  • Example: The famous actress graced the event with her presence.