low-grade

adjective

ˈlō-ˈgrād 

1

: of inferior grade or quality

2

: being near that extreme of a specified range which is lowest, least intense, least serious, or least competent

a low-grade fever

a low-grade infection

Synonyms of low-grade

• cheap
• inferior
• poor
• terrible
• coarse
• bad
• rotten
• common

Examples of low-grade in a Sentence

plumbing fixtures that were made out of low-grade materials

Recent Examples on the Web

The label also addresses the low-grade frustrations of midsize shopping—even if many of us wear straight sizes, that doesn’t always guarantee a flattering look or comfortable fit. —Petra Guglielmetti, Glamour, 20 Feb. 2026

Notice which social media accounts, conversations, or environments cause low-grade panic. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 20 Feb. 2026

What the Research Showed The study, funded by the National Mango Board, involved 48 adult men ages 20-60 who had overweight or obesity and chronic low-grade inflammation. —Lauren Manaker Ms, Health, 19 Feb. 2026

The result was a low-grade labrum tear in her left shoulder. —Zak Keefer, New York Times, 13 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for low-grade

• afraid
• allayed
• arcade
• arrayed
• assayed
• barmaid
• betrayed
• blockade
• bridesmaid
• brigade
• brocade
• buffeted

Kids Definition

low-grade

adjective

ˈlō-ˈgrād

1

: of poor grade or quality

2

: being near that end of a range which is lowest, weakest, or least able

a low-grade fever

Medical Definition

low-grade

adjective

ˈlō-ˈgrād 

: being near that extreme of a specified range which is lowest, least intense, or least competent

a low-grade fever

a low-grade infection

compare high-grade