Gracefully Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gracefully

[หˆษกreษชsfษ™li ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

movement

In a graceful and elegant manner.

Synonyms

elegantly, graciously, smoothly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gracefully

Used to describe movements or actions that are smooth and attractive, often related to dance or physical activities.

  • She danced gracefully across the stage.
  • The swan moved gracefully on the lake.
elegantly

Typically describes something that is stylish, tasteful, and sophisticated. Commonly used for fashion, decor, and behavior.

  • She was dressed elegantly for the gala.
  • The room was elegantly decorated for the event.
smoothly

Refers to actions or processes that occur without interruptions, problems, or resistance. Often used in operational or technical settings.

  • The event went smoothly thanks to good planning.
  • The car's engine runs smoothly.
graciously

Denotes a polite, kind, and courteous manner, often in the context of hospitality or responding to compliments.

  • She graciously thanked everyone for their help.
  • He accepted the award graciously.

Examples of usage

  • She moved gracefully across the dance floor.
  • The ballerina performed the routine gracefully.
Context #2 | Adjective

appearance

Having or showing grace or elegance.

Synonyms

elegant, poised, refined.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gracefully

Used to describe someone who moves in a smooth and attractive way or behaves in a respectful and kind manner.

  • She danced gracefully across the stage.
  • He gracefully accepted the criticism.
elegant

Typically used to describe someone or something that is stylish, sophisticated, and attractive.

  • The bride looked elegant in her white gown.
  • He has an elegant solution to the problem.
poised

Used for someone who is calm, confident, and self-assured, often in a challenging situation.

  • She remained poised during the interview.
  • He is always poised to handle any crisis.
refined

Used to describe someone with well-developed manners, culture, or taste, often implying sophistication and delicacy.

  • She has a very refined taste in art.
  • His manners are very refined and courteous.

Examples of usage

  • She had a gracefully slender figure.
  • The swan glided across the lake with a gracefully arched neck.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Literature

  • In art, graceful figures often portray beauty and tranquility, found in classical sculptures and paintings.
  • Writers frequently use the term to describe charactersโ€™ movements or actions that evoke admiration, enhancing emotional impact.
  • Ballet is a prime example of graceful movement, where dancers combine athleticism and artistry.

Cultural References

  • Many cultures celebrate graceful movements in dance, such as ballet in Western culture or traditional dances in Asia and Africa.
  • In contemporary media, graceful performances are often featured in movies and competitions, highlighting elegance and skill.
  • 'Graceful' behavior is admired in many cultures, symbolizing poise and dignity in challenging situations.

Psychology

  • Studies show that graceful movements can evoke positive emotional responses from observers, making them feel calmer and more relaxed.
  • Elegant body language is often associated with confidence and can influence how others perceive us in social interactions.
  • Learning to move gracefully can enhance one's self-esteem and the way they carry themselves in public.

Sports

  • Gymnastics showcases grace, as athletes perform routines that require both strength and fluidity.
  • Figure skating is another sport where graceful movements are critical, combining balance, artistry, and technical skill.
  • Sports commentary often praises athletes for their grace under pressure, acknowledging their composure and fluidity in performance.

Origin of 'gracefully'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'gratia', which means 'favor' or 'thanks', reflecting harmony and beauty.
  • The suffix '-fully' indicates having a quality, so 'gracefully' means full of grace.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe elegant movements.

The word 'gracefully' originates from the Middle English word 'grace' which comes from the Old French 'grace' meaning 'pardon' or 'divine grace'. The adverb form 'gracefully' started to be used in the 17th century to describe movements or actions performed with elegance and poise.


See also: disgrace, disgraced, disgraceful, disgracefully, grace, graceful, gracefulness, gracious, ungraceful, ungracefully, ungracefulness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,955, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.