(of people or behaviour) kind, polite and generous, especially to somebody of a lower social position

a gracious lady

a gracious smile

Lady Caroline was gracious enough to accept our invitation.

He has not yet learned how to be gracious in defeat.

See related entries: Kind

[usually before noun] showing the comfort and easy way of life that wealth can bring

gracious living

[only before noun] (British English, formal) used as a very polite word for royal people or their actions

her gracious Majesty the Queen

The performance will take place in the gracious presence of HRH the Prince of Wales.

gracious (to somebody) (of God) showing kindness and mercy

a gracious act of God

(becoming old-fashioned) used for expressing surprise

Goodness gracious!

‘I hope you didn't mind my phoning you.’ ‘Good gracious, no, of course not.’