gradual

1 of 2

adjective

grad·​u·​al ˈgra-jə-wəl 

-jəl, 

ˈgraj-wəl

1

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

a gradual change in temperature

2

: proceeding by steps or degrees

a gradual climb to the top

gradually adverb

gradualness noun

gradual

2 of 2

noun

variants often Gradual

1

: a book containing the choral parts of the Mass

2

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

Synonyms of gradual

Adjective

• incremental
• phased

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

Adjective

Is the gradual end to exclusive ticketing contracts a meaningful step toward more competition? —Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026

Key Takeaways Greek yogurt with berries typically causes a gradual rise in blood sugar due to its protein, fiber, and balance of natural carbohydrates. —Brittany Poulson, Verywell Health, 10 Mar. 2026

That alone would be disconcerting, but that the line (dubbed the Petrova Line, after the scientist who discovered it) seems to be linked to a new, gradual dimming of the sun? —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 10 Mar. 2026

The protagonist encounters advances in nanotechnology, brain-machine interfaces and space exploration through personal encounters rather than global events, moving from initial resistance through gradual acceptance while maintaining her essential identity. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 9 Mar. 2026

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

Kids Definition

gradual

adjective

grad·​u·​al

ˈgraj-(ə-)wəl, 

ˈgraj-əl

1

: proceeding by steps or degrees

2

: moving or changing by slight degrees

gradually adverb

gradualness noun