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 of progression

• 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

This year’s results—which show most respondents prioritizing gradual growth, continuous learning and well-being over fast career progression—once again point to the resolve and adaptability of these generations. —Emma Codd, Forbes.com, 21 May 2026

Speaking on his trenches counterpart, Smith pointed to the progression ahead for Booker. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 May 2026

Like a good novel, the best quilts create a feeling of progression and change. —Literary Hub, 19 May 2026

For Roki Sasaki and the Los Angeles Dodgers, process and progression have been the priority this season — even when results didn’t show much of either. —Katie Woo, New York Times, 18 May 2026

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