Synonyms for

Graceful

Verb / ˈgreɪsfʌl / Another word for graceful — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having or showing grace or elegance; characterized by beauty of movement, style, form, or proportion.

Synonyms & similar words

awkward refined elegant elegant gracious light-footed lithe nimble poised refined sleek smooth supple swanlike well-proportioned willowy beautiful charming delicate dignified exquisite fine lovely

Synonyms by register

Formal

elegant poised refined comely

Informal

smooth slick classy stylish

Literary

ethereal sylphlike lissom

Antonyms

clumsy awkward ungainly gauche inelegant stiff uncoordinated

Common collocations

  • graceful movement
  • graceful exit
  • graceful dancer
  • graceful bow
  • graceful decline
  • graceful manner
  • graceful curve

Word family

noun grace
adjective graceful
adverb gracefully

Usage note

Graceful primarily describes physical movement or appearance, but can also refer to a smooth or elegant way of handling a situation. It generally carries a positive connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The swan glided gracefully across the lake.
  2. The gymnast's movements were so graceful that the audience was mesmerized.
  3. She walked with a graceful stride.
  4. The butterfly's flight was graceful and delicate.
  5. The horse moved gracefully around the arena.

Quotes

  • Gracefulness has been defined to be the outward expression of the inward harmony of the soul. - William Hazlitt
  • Gracefulness is to the body what understanding is to the mind. - Francois de la Rochefoucauld
  • Gracefulness is a tricky quality – it manifests itself as an effortless, subtle harmony between a subject and its environment. - Tim Ferriss

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