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

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

China has also maintained warm ties with North Korea amid its gradual isolation over the years. —Cybele Mayes-Osterman, USA TODAY, 1 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