progression

noun

pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgre-shən How to pronounce progression (audio)
Synonyms of progressionnext
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 How to pronounce progression (audio)
-ˈgre-shə-nᵊl
adjective

Synonyms of progression

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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
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.
Swain settled in this preseason, showing an improved progression in his decision making when he was not overwhelmed by on-ball duties. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 17 Oct. 2026 Existing treatments for geographic atrophy, or late-stage dry AMD, can help slow its progression but can’t restore vision loss. — Erica Sweeney, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 Nonprofits that respect that progression can build relationships earlier and more authentically. — Yuriy Boyechko, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026 But when given the opportunity for a larger role on Saturday night, Conwell created confidence of an eventual progression. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for progression

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of progression was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing progression

Rhymes for progression

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Browse Nearby Words

progress clerk
progression
progressional
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Cite this Entry

“Progression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progression. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

progression

noun
pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgresh-ən How to pronounce progression (audio)
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
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