gradation

Definition

A sequence of gradual, successive stages; a systematic progression.

Etymology

Borrowed from French gradation. By surface analysis, grade + -ation.

Example Sentences

• "A decade ago, the British department-store chain John Lewis built itself a long warehouse, painted in gradations of sky blue."
• "the several gradations of the intelligent universe"
• "Two distinct types of lupus erythematosus are recognized: [1] chronic or discoid, which is essentially a skin lesion, and [2] severe systemic, designated as acute. Between the two types are many gradations to which the term subacute has been applied."