gradual

1 of 2

adjective

grad·​u·​al ˈgra-jə-wəl 

-jəl,

ˈgraj-wəl

1

: moving, changing, or developing by fine or often imperceptible degrees

2

: proceeding by steps or degrees

gradually adverb

gradualness noun

gradual

2 of 2

noun

often capitalized

1

: a book containing the choral parts of the Mass

2

: a pair of verses (as from the Psalms) proper after the Epistle in the Mass

Synonyms

Adjective

• gradational
• incremental
• phased
• piecemeal
• step-by-step

Examples of gradual in a Sentence

Adjective

We noticed a gradual change in temperature.

The hospital has made gradual improvements in health care.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

However, gradual improvements in his condition have quieted speculation about an imminent resignation or papal conclave. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025

These findings support the theory that sudden changes or drops in estrogen, as opposed to more gradual changes, increase the risk of migraine. —Brigid Dwyer, Verywell Health, 27 Feb. 2025

Pope showing gradual improvement The twice-daily reports on the pope's health issued by the Vatican since his hospitalization Feb. 14 continue to show slight improvement. —John Bacon, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2025

Steaming allows for more gradual, gentle cooking, providing a more generous margin of error, and prevents intramuscular fat from rendering out too quickly. —Amiel Stanek, Bon Appétit, 26 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Medieval Latin gradualis, from Latin gradus

Noun

Middle English, from Medieval Latin graduale, from Latin gradus step; from its being sung on the steps of the altar

First Known Use

Adjective

1658, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

gradual

adjective

grad·​u·​al

ˈgraj-(ə-)wəl,

ˈgraj-əl

1

: proceeding by steps or degrees

2

: moving or changing by slight degrees

gradually adverb

gradualness noun