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 of progression

• 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

The progression in understanding came with a complementary trust and a movement away from the supernatural, one that might be reversing today. — T.m. Brown, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2026

Its newer Helios architecture is another step in that progression. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 16 Aug. 2026

Gameplay emphasizes strategic positioning, base management, and mission planning, with RPG elements like squad progression and player choices influencing the campaign. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026

The progression of clothing seen in each section is meant to reflect the state of the world before, during and after the crash, a transition from glitz and glam to practical silhouettes meant for labor. — Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 15 Aug. 2026

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