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

As intensive as that may be—requiring a gradual acclimation and a rarity among Korean retinols—the velvety oil uses squalane and vitamin E to replenish and protect the skin barrier. —Deanna Pai, Vogue, 6 Mar. 2025

His administration implemented a gradual reduction through attrition and buyouts that cut 377,000 federal jobs in seven years. —Carl Leubsdorf, The Mercury News, 6 Mar. 2025

Normally, as the sun slowly sets from the moon's perspective, the drop in temperature is gradual. —Joe Rao, Space.com, 6 Mar. 2025

While this can be hard for those of us who are introverted, socially anxious or are perfectionists, research has found that sharing of our lives in a gradual and reciprocal manner is the very foundation of a strong friendship. —Ellen Hendriksen, Contributor, CNBC, 5 Mar. 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