  We present a spectroscopic survey of known and candidate $\gamma$\,Doradus
stars. The high-resolution, high signal-to-noise spectra of 52 objects were
collected by five different spectrographs. The spectral classification,
atmospheric parameters (\teff, $\log g$, $\xi$), $v\sin i$ and chemical
composition of the stars were derived. The stellar spectral and luminosity
classes were found between G0-A7 and IV-V, respectively. The initial values for
\teff\ and \logg\ were determined from the photometric indices and spectral
energy distribution. Those parameters were improved by the analysis of hydrogen
lines. The final values of \teff, \logg\ and $\xi$ were derived from the iron
lines analysis. The \teff\ values were found between 6000\,K and 7900\,K, while
\logg\,values range from 3.8 to 4.5\,dex. Chemical abundances and $v\sin i$
values were derived by the spectrum synthesis method. The $v\sin i$ values were
found between 5 and 240\,km\,s$^{-1}$. The chemical abundance pattern of
$\gamma$\,Doradus stars were compared with the pattern of non-pulsating stars.
It turned out that there is no significant difference in abundance patterns
between these two groups. Additionally, the relations between the atmospheric
parameters and the pulsation quantities were checked. A strong correlation
between the $v\sin i$ and the pulsation periods of $\gamma$\,Doradus variables
was obtained. The accurate positions of the analysed stars in the H-R diagram
have been shown. Most of our objects are located inside or close to the blue
edge of the theoretical instability strip of $\gamma$\,Doradus.
