progression

noun

pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgre-shən 

1

: a sequence of numbers in which each term is related to its predecessor by a uniform law

2

a

: the action or process of progressing : advance

b

: a continuous and connected series : sequence

3

a

: succession of musical tones or chords

b

: the movement of musical parts in harmony

c

: sequence sense 2c

progressional

prə-ˈgresh-nəl 

-ˈgre-shə-nᵊl

adjective

Synonyms

• catena
• catenation
• chain
• concatenation
• consecution
• nexus
• sequence
• string
• train

Examples of progression in a Sentence

Doctors were surprised by the rapid progression of the disease.

the natural progression of his musical talent

Recent Examples on the Web

Fear of failure often stifles growth and progression. —Arthi Rabikrisson, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

While there is no cure for ALS, current treatments can slow the progression of symptoms and prolong independence. —Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 17 June 2025

The new positions are expected to support long-term research into the causes, progression, and treatment of such conditions. —Jason Phillips, USA Today, 17 June 2025

Gardner-Johnson was a critical piece to an Eagles secondary that saw a major jump in progression in 2022. —Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing progression

• arithmetic progression
• geometric progression
• harmonic progression

Rhymes for progression

• accession
• aggression
• compression
• concession
• confession
• depression
• digression
• discretion
• expression
• impression
• obsession
• oppression

Kids Definition

progression

noun

pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgresh-ən 

1

: the action of progressing or moving forward

2

: a continuous and connected series (as of acts, events, or steps)

3

: a changing from one chord to another by means of several notes or chords coming one after the other