gradual
gradual Lexical Profile
gradual Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Taking place, changing, or progressing slowly by small, regular degrees or stages over time rather than all at once.
"The physical therapist recommended a gradual return to exercise after her knee surgery."
Rising or descending at a gentle, moderate incline without sharp or steep drops.
"The coastal trail follows a gradual slope up to the scenic overlook."
• noun
A liturgical antiphon or responsive verse, typically drawn from the Book of Psalms, sung or recited between the epistle and the gospel readings during the Christian Eucharistic service, or a choir book containing these musical chants.
"The cathedral choir chanted a traditional Latin gradual before the reading of the gospel."
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from Medieval Latin gradualis, from Latin gradus ('a step, pace, or degree'), derived from the verb gradi ('to walk or step'). The liturgical noun sense originated from the practice of chanting verses while standing on the steps of the altar.