Graciousness

/ˈɡreɪʃəsnəs/ noun

Definition

The quality of being kind, courteous, and charming; elegant politeness and warmth.

Etymology

From 'gracious' plus '-ness'. 'Gracious' comes from Latin 'gratiosus' (favored, agreeable), which evolved through Old French and Middle English before the '-ness' suffix was added.

Kelly Says

Graciousness is what Emily Post and modern etiquette experts teach—it's civility with warmth, not just following rules coldly. A gracious person makes others feel valued, not just correct.

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