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 Capturing the essence of the juicy center of a grapefruit, the black-to-grapefruit red gradient model and complementing strap round out the new collection launch. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 28 June 2025 With gradients barely rising above 3.8%, and just one modest fourth-category climb late in the race, the course through western France is expected to end in a bunch sprint. Kilty Cleary, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025 Marked by soft transparency and subtle gradients, the glass-like design appears in just about every interface, including the Menu Bar, the Lock Screen, app icons, and sidebars in apps. Luke Larsen, Wired News, 11 June 2025 The result is a two-tone gradient dial that elegantly complements the 42 mm steel case and orange details. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 29 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for gradient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gradient
Noun
  • Even on their romantic outing on the ice rink and slopes, the lovebirds chose to wear complementing cozy 'fits.
    Michelle Lee, People.com, 25 July 2025
  • The lower-level entrance did not meet accessibility standards due to the steep slope of the walkway, according to library officials, and water collected at the base of the walkway near the building, at times entering the building.
    Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 24 July 2025
Noun
  • Our inclination might be to freeze event planning and ride out the storm, but history shows that innovation thrives in adversity.
    Shawn Pierce, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
  • SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket arced downrange over the Atlantic Ocean, heading northeast to place its payload into the Kuiper constellation at an inclination of 51.9 degrees to the equator.
    Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 16 July 2025
Noun
  • Designed by Moody Nolan, the facade pattern was inspired by Cincinnati's five inclines.
    Sydney Franklin, The Enquirer, 29 July 2025
  • The difficulty of trekking the roughly 47-mile West Coast Trail, which requires climbing more than 100 ladder systems up steep inclines and crossing swift rivers, effectively limits access to experienced backpackers.
    The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Gradient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gradient. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.

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