progression

noun

pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgre-shən How to pronounce progression (audio)
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
progressional
prə-ˈgresh-nəl How to pronounce progression (audio)
-ˈgre-shə-nᵊl
adjective

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Went through the progression as normal and got two negative plays in a row after the screen. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Oct. 2025 That extended catharsis led to acceptance, a journey mirrored by the album’s progression. Maura Johnston, Rolling Stone, 10 Oct. 2025 Thompson’s progression as a ballhandler who can alleviate pressure off Cunningham won’t happen overnight. Hunter Patterson, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 Disease progression was measured by the Unified Huntington’s Disease Rating Scale, which assesses motor, cognitive and functional capabilities. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for progression

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of progression was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Progression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progression. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

progression

noun
pro·​gres·​sion prə-ˈgresh-ən How to pronounce progression (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on progression

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