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
Aliza Chasan, CBS News, 12 Mar. 2025
But where once there was gradual progress, there’s now the chance to take a giant leap forward.
—Lisa Caldwell, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
At the time of the ceasefire, which includes the gradual release of hostages in return for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the Houthis announced a cessation of the attacks.
—Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 10 Mar. 2025
The composer asks for a gradual crescendo, which most pianists interpret as a stepwise intensification of the big chords, with the low notes following suit.
—Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 10 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gradual
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Adjective
However, the moon's gradual dimming won't be noticeable until around 1:09 a.m. on Friday.
—Aliza Chasan, CBS News, 12 Mar. 2025
But where once there was gradual progress, there’s now the chance to take a giant leap forward.
—Lisa Caldwell, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
At the time of the ceasefire, which includes the gradual release of hostages in return for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the Houthis announced a cessation of the attacks.
—Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 10 Mar. 2025
The composer asks for a gradual crescendo, which most pianists interpret as a stepwise intensification of the big chords, with the low notes following suit.
—Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 10 Mar. 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 16 Mar. 2025.
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