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
Synonyms
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
Benjamin Roulston, Discover Magazine, 7 Nov. 2024
Well, that this gradual reduction in time spent near the boats means sharks most likely do not form long-term associations with these vessels.
—Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Washington has repeatedly argued no change in its approach to the issue, but its gradual shifts have been viewed in Beijing as a leading threat.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Instead of a purchase-and-sale that, pending NBA approval, would have transferred a controlling interest to Rodriguez and Lore, the deal contemplated multiple stages of payment and a gradual conveyance of ownership.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 4 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for gradual 
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Adjective
Keep in mind that these layer transitions are gradual, not abrupt; the transition from normal hydrogen gas to liquid hydrogen and then to metallic hydrogen happens slowly and smoothly.
—Benjamin Roulston, Discover Magazine, 7 Nov. 2024
Well, that this gradual reduction in time spent near the boats means sharks most likely do not form long-term associations with these vessels.
—Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Washington has repeatedly argued no change in its approach to the issue, but its gradual shifts have been viewed in Beijing as a leading threat.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Instead of a purchase-and-sale that, pending NBA approval, would have transferred a controlling interest to Rodriguez and Lore, the deal contemplated multiple stages of payment and a gradual conveyance of ownership.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 4 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for gradual
Dictionary Entries Near gradual
Cite this Entry
“Gradual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gradual. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
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