grad·u·al
ˈgra-jə-wəl 
-jəl,
ˈgraj-wəl
1
: moving, changing, or developing by fine or often imperceptible degrees
2
: proceeding by steps or degrees
gradually
adverb
gradualness
noun
often capitalized
1
: a book containing the choral parts of the Mass
2
: a pair of verses (as from the Psalms) proper after the Epistle in the Mass
Examples of gradual in a Sentence
Adjective
We noticed a gradual change in temperature.
The hospital has made gradual improvements in health care.
Recent Examples on the Web
Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 4 June 2025
The first three months are typically the most intense, with gradual improvement in daily functioning over the first year.
—Charell G. Coleman, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
While Google has steadily strengthened its privacy and security stance, many users may not have noticed the gradual rollout of new privacy resources.
—Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2025
In its first phase, Israel’s campaign in Gaza reinforced a gradual mission creep from the war’s original aims.
—Assaf Orion, Foreign Affairs, 3 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for gradual
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Adjective
Such a gradual approach to the moon does not, however, guarantee landing success.
—Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 4 June 2025
The first three months are typically the most intense, with gradual improvement in daily functioning over the first year.
—Charell G. Coleman, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
While Google has steadily strengthened its privacy and security stance, many users may not have noticed the gradual rollout of new privacy resources.
—Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2025
In its first phase, Israel’s campaign in Gaza reinforced a gradual mission creep from the war’s original aims.
—Assaf Orion, Foreign Affairs, 3 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for gradual
Cite this Entry
“Gradual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gradual. Accessed 9 Jun. 2025.
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