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

Keep in mind that these layer transitions are gradual, not abrupt; the transition from normal hydrogen gas to liquid hydrogen and then to metallic hydrogen happens slowly and smoothly. —Benjamin Roulston, Discover Magazine, 7 Nov. 2024

Well, that this gradual reduction in time spent near the boats means sharks most likely do not form long-term associations with these vessels. —Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Washington has repeatedly argued no change in its approach to the issue, but its gradual shifts have been viewed in Beijing as a leading threat. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

Instead of a purchase-and-sale that, pending NBA approval, would have transferred a controlling interest to Rodriguez and Lore, the deal contemplated multiple stages of payment and a gradual conveyance of ownership. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 4 Nov. 2024

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