gradual

1 of 2

adjective

grad·u·al ˈgra-jə-wəl

-jəl,

ˈgraj-wəl

Synonyms of gradual

: moving, changing, or developing by fine or often imperceptible degrees

a gradual change in temperature

: proceeding by steps or degrees

a gradual climb to the top

gradually adverb

gradualness noun

gradual

2 of 2

noun

variants often Gradual

: a book containing the choral parts of the Mass

: a pair of verses (as from the Psalms) proper after the Epistle in the Mass

Synonyms of gradual

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Adjective

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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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Adjective

Fluctuations in intensity are possible through the next day or so, followed by a gradual weakening trend Sunday and Monday. — Doyle Rice, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2026 This is a gradual loss of muscle mass that actually begins around age 30. — Sarah Klein, Washington Post, 5 Sep. 2026 Consider the implications of a mature brand experiencing gradual growth. — Angelo Chavez, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2026 The gradual accumulation of these substances in the body can disrupt normal physiological functions, ultimately leading to disease, impaired health, and, in severe cases, death. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gradual

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

Time Traveler

The first known use of gradual was in the 15th century

See more words from the same century

Cite this Entry

Style

“Gradual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gradual. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

gradual

adjective

grad·u·al

ˈgraj-(ə-)wəl,

ˈgraj-əl

: proceeding by steps or degrees

: moving or changing by slight degrees

gradually adverb

gradualness noun

gradual

adjective

noun

Synonyms of gradual

Examples of gradual in a Sentence

Word History

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Kids Definition

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