gradus

noun

gra·​dus

ˈgrādəs

plural -es

1

: a dictionary of Greek or Latin prosody and poetical phrases used as an aid in the writing of verse in Greek or Latin

2

: a handbook (as of law phrases or forms) or exercise book to assist in the mastering or performance of a difficult art or practice

Word History

Etymology

from Gradus ad Parnassum (Latin, literally, a step to Parnassus), a 17th century prosody dictionary long used in British schools

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