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gracious

adj.
US //ˈɡɹeɪʃəs// UK //ɡɹˈeɪʃəs// gra·cious
  1. 1 kind and polite (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    behaving in a kind, polite, and pleasant way towards others.

    characterised by charm, good taste, and generosity of spirit, especially toward those of lower social standing or in difficult situations.

    Example

    The host was very gracious and made sure everyone felt welcome at the party.

    Example

    Despite the aggressive questioning from the press, the minister remained gracious and answered every query with calm professionalism.
  2. 2 elegant or comfortable (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    having the qualities of a high-quality, elegant, and comfortable life.

    relating to a style of life characterised by elegance, luxury, and good taste.

    Example

    They enjoyed a few days of gracious living in a beautiful old hotel by the sea.

    Example

    The estate was designed for gracious entertaining, featuring expansive gardens and a dining hall that could seat fifty guests.
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  1. 3 forgiving in defeat (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    being kind and polite even when you lose or when someone is wrong.

    showing magnanimity and a lack of resentment, particularly when conceding a loss or accepting an apology.

    Example

    He was gracious in defeat, shaking hands with the winner and offering his congratulations.

    Example

    It is rare to find a politician so gracious in victory that they go out of their way to praise their opponent's hard work.
Origin

From Middle English gracious, from Old French gracieus, from Latin gratiosus, from gratia (“esteem, favor”). See grace. Displaced native Old English hold (“gracious”). Doublet of gracioso and grazioso.

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