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adj. 1. a. Characterized by kindness and warm courtesy: gave the guests a gracious welcome. b. Characterized by tact and propriety: responded to the insult with gracious humor. c. Condescendingly courteous; indulgent: was always gracious toward the servants. 2. Merciful or compassionate. Used especially of God in Christianity and Islam. 3. Characterized by elegance and good taste: gracious living. 4. Archaic Enjoying favor or grace; acceptable or pleasing. interj. Used to express surprise or mild emotion. [Middle English, from Old French gracieus, from Latin grātiōsus, from grātia, good will; see GRACE.] gracious·ly adv. gracious·ness n. |
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