gradate

verb gra·date \ ˈgrāˌdāt , grəˈd- \

Definition of gradate

-ed/-ing/-s

intransitive verb

: to shade insensibly into another (as of a color) or each other (as of colors) : shade off : blend

transitive verb

1 : to cause (a color or colors) to gradate

many layers of sheer material in gradated colors
—Lois Long

2 : to dispose or arrange in or into steps, grades, or ranks

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Origin and Etymology of gradate

back-formation from gradation

gradate

adjective \ " \

Definition of gradate

: occurring in or characterized by a serial arrangement with nearly equal variation between adjacent members : having a gradient or exhibiting gradation