GRADIENT Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

gradient

noun

ˈgrā-dē-ənt

Definition of gradient

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 These thermal gradients generate stresses that may crack or spall – chip or flake off – the outer surface, but the heat often does not penetrate deeply enough to compromise the structural core. — Giorgia Giardina, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2026 Under looks like a shiny silver 911, but a closer inspection reveals dual ChromaFlair color gradient paintwork that actually transitions between Southern Cross Blue above the shoulderline and Terra Australis Red. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 7 Aug. 2026 There were three smaller climbs heading to Ventoux, which was ranked as a Hors Catégorie ascent — the hardest category — and had a gradient of nearly 9%. — ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026 The first explanation the researchers came up with was that the flies were climbing a rising gradient of odor toward the source. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gradient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for gradient

Noun

Four unique climbing routes offer different experiences when climbing the Palisades slope, ranging from small loops of half the mountain to full summits to the top of the 1,200-foot peak.

— Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2026
The weather service said the locally higher rain amounts are expected on south and southeast slopes.

— Doyle Rice, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of slope

Noun

The film’s procedural aspect ticks along just fine, holding the attention without subverting expectations, and carried by actors who, much like the detectives in this case, are ultra-capable professionals with no inclination to go rogue on us.

— Guy Lodge, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026
Collectively, that inclination could lead to bills soaring ever higher.

— Audrey McGlinchy, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of inclination

Noun

The imposing gate and incline signal that privacy is one of the adults-only resort’s strongest assets, attracting high-profile guests like Katy Perry and Sir Paul McCartney.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026
The Pro version utilizes dual 250-W all-wheel-drive hubs to generate the torque to climb an impressive 15% hill incline.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of incline

Browse Nearby Words

grades

gradient

gradients

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“Gradient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gradient. Accessed 9 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of gradient

noun

Example Sentences

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