Gradual

Pronunciation

Alternative forms

• graduall obsolete

Origin

From Medieval Latin gradualis, from Latin gradus ("step"), from Proto-Indo-European *gʰradʰ-, *gʰredʰ- ("to walk, go"). Cognate with Gothic 𐌲𐍂𐌹𐌸𐍃 (griþs, "step, grade"), Bavarian Gritt ("step, stride").

Full definition of gradual

Adjective

1. Proceeding by steps or small degrees; advancing step by step, as in ascent or descent or from one state to another; regularly progressive; slow.a gradual increase of knowledge; a gradual decline
• MiltonCreatures animate with gradual life
  Of growth, sense, reason, all summed up in man.

Synonyms

• stepwise

Antonyms

• sudden
• abrupt

Derived terms

• gradually

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic Church) An antiphon or responsory after the epistle, in the Mass, which was sung on the steps, or while the deacon ascended the steps.
2. (Roman Catholic Church) A service book containing the musical portions of the Mass.----