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

The athletic-to-fashion rotation is expected to be a gradual one that will play out over several years, with footwear expected to lead the change and apparel following more slowly. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2026

The colder temperatures last through early next week including a higher potential for a freeze in the metro areas on several mornings next week before a gradual warm up by midweek. — Rachael Jay, CBS News, 12 Nov. 2026

Growth is gradual, and most assessments are made at the 9–12 month mark. — Burak Onal, Kansas City Star, 10 Nov. 2026

The first great pre-Roman culture on the Italian peninsula, Etruscan civilization flourished roughly from the 9th century BCE until its gradual absorption into the Roman Empire by the 1st century BCE. — Anne Doran, ARTnews.com, 9 Nov. 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