as in slope
the degree to which something rises up from a position level with the horizon the path goes up at a pretty steep gradient before leveling off

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of gradient Each of the watches has its bracelets and cases hand-serrated by files, giving the sleek sports watch a post-apocalyptic twist in stark contrast to its mirror-effect gradient dial. Thor Svaboe, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2025 This produces a non-uniform strain on the ice, producing what is called strain gradient. New Atlas, 6 Sep. 2025 From there, the line climbs a 265-meter track at a 17 percent gradient up Calçada da Glória. Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025 These components produce a potential in the presence of a temperature gradient (via what’s known as the Seebeck effect). IEEE Spectrum, 25 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gradient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gradient
Noun
  • Ski aficionados can take to the slopes at nearby Saint-Sauveur.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2025
  • The River Kelvin at this point is very picturesque, with bends and steep slopes.
    Jeanine Barone, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • For those with time and inclination, the New York Times did an exhaustive deep dive into court battle based on thousands of pages of court filings and hearing transcripts.
    Howard Homonoff, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
  • No other player has a similar inclination to hold width.
    Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • They are most commonly used to transport people and cargo up steep inclines.
    Catherine Nicholls, CNN Money, 4 Sep. 2025
  • And while the bag stays in place well, a small hip stabilizer strap would be helpful on steeper inclines and descents.
    Karthika Gupta, Travel + Leisure, 4 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Gradient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gradient. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

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