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

The Federal Reserve Minutes from recent meetings reveal a preference for a gradual pace of rate cuts, with a focus on balancing economic growth and inflation control. —Gianluca Sidoti, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

The performance was the low point of a gradual downturn in form. —Jacob Tanswell, The Athletic, 29 Dec. 2024

In the case of teens especially, that may look like more collaborative problem-solving and the gradual allowance for more freedom and independent decision-making. —Alex Vance, Parents, 27 Dec. 2024

For now, Kate is embracing a gradual return to royal duties, which will continue well into 2024. —Jenzia Burgos, StyleCaster, 22 Dec. 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