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

• 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

Research has found several genetic variants that are associated with the development and progression of MASH. —Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 12 July 2025

Because of this, glycans can also end up playing a role in the development and progression of cancer. —Ian Randall, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 July 2025

Instead, recruit with an intent to fit your scheme and depth needs, fill roster holes with the transfer portal and then do player progressions manually. —Cameron Teague Robinson, New York Times, 11 July 2025

Ranked mode progression is tied to wins, not personal stats. —Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 8 July 2025

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