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

• sequence
• chain
• 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

Both the single-player campaign and PvP online multiplayer are memorable thanks to a solid progression system and clearly defined starship classes that handle very differently and play distinct roles in the space battles. —Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 4 Aug. 2025

The tasting menu comes in two formats: a four-act progression of seven dishes or a longer, twelve-course format. —Keyla Vasconcellos, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

The July 31 update said that in the north and east, the fire is approaching a transition of fuels that could alter progression. —Michelle Cruz, AZCentral.com, 31 July 2025

Researchers have started investigating ways to use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to monitor Alzheimer's disease progression. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 31 July 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