Definition of "grace" in English

noun

1. (countable, uncountable) Charming, pleasing qualities.

   • The Princess brought grace to an otherwise dull and boring party.

2. (countable) A short prayer of thanks before or after a meal.

   • It has become less common to say grace before having dinner.

3. (countable, card games) In the games of patience or solitaire: a special move that is normally against the rules.

4. (countable, music) A grace note.

5. (uncountable) Elegant movement; elegance of movement; balance or poise.

   • The dancer moved with grace and strength.

6. (uncountable, finance) An allowance of time granted to a debtor during which he or she is free of at least part of his normal obligations towards the creditor.

   • The repayment of the loan starts after a three-year grace.

7. (uncountable, theology) Free and undeserved favour, especially of God; unmerited divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration or sanctification, or for resisting sin.

   • Near-synonyms: Divine Providence, Providence
   • divine grace
   • the grace of God

8. An act or decree of the governing body of an English university.

9. (archaic) Mercy, pardon.

verb

1. (transitive) To adorn; to decorate; to embellish and dignify.

   • He graced the room with his presence.
   • He graced the room by simply being there.
   • His portrait graced a landing on the stairway.

2. (transitive) To dignify or raise by an act of favour; to honour.

3. (transitive) To supply with heavenly grace.

4. (transitive, music) To add grace notes, cadenzas, etc., to.